Punjab Enacts Complete Ban on Kite Flying with Severe Penalties for Violators
The bill was championed by Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League party
Punjab enacted a complete ban on kite flying, which includes severe penalties for violations.
On Tuesday, the Punjab Assembly passed the legislation intended to enhance public safety ahead of the traditional Basant festival, which is known for its kite-flying activities.
The ban follows a previous prohibition initiated in 2005 after numerous fatalities caused by sharp kite strings. Despite earlier regulations, kite flying continued to pose risks, leading to ongoing amendments to tighten enforcement and penalties.
The bill was tabled by Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League party, who emphasized the necessity of these measures to protect innocent lives from the dangers associated with kite flying
The bill stated, “Dangerous kite flying has caused the deaths of many motorcyclists across Punjab.”
Key Provisions of the Ban
Severe Penalties: Individuals caught flying kites face imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines up to 2 million rupees (approximately $7,200). For manufacturers of kites and dangerous kite strings, penalties are even harsher, with potential prison sentences of up to seven years and fines reaching 5 million rupees.
Non-Bailable Offense: The new law classifies kite flying and related activities as non-bailable offences. This means that those arrested cannot secure bail easily, significantly increasing the legal repercussions for violators.
