The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has banned kite flying in public parks and greenbelts during this year’s Basant festival. The festival will run for three days, starting February 6. The ban is aimed at protecting trees, plants, and other park infrastructure from damage during the celebrations.
PHA Managing Director Raja Mansoor Ahmad said the decision was necessary because large crowds are expected in Lahore. Visitors from other cities, provinces, and even abroad are likely to join the festival. He said the parks will remain open to the public, but kite flying will not be permitted in these areas. Enforcement staff have been placed on high alert to ensure compliance.
Officials warned that any violations of the ban will be taken seriously. Directors responsible for different zones have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of the rules. Authorities said that if any damage or untoward incident occurs, the responsible officials will be held accountable.
The city administration said the festival will be monitored closely using drones and cameras from the Lahore Safe City Authority. A control room will operate from the Deputy Commissioner’s office to oversee activities during Basant. Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Ali Ijaz said kite flying will only be allowed from February 6 to 8. He added that kite materials will be sold through registered dealers only.
Authorities have prohibited kites larger than the approved size. Bikers will be required to use safety wires while flying kites. The celebrations will be confined to designated grounds and notified rooftops, including locations in the Walled City and other approved areas.
This year, 2,437 kite sellers, manufacturers, traders, and associations have applied for registration with the city administration. Authorities have reviewed the applications and approved the majority, while some are still pending and a few have been rejected. The registration ensures that only authorized vendors can sell kites during the festival.
The provincial government announced last December that Basant would be celebrated in a limited manner this year. The move aims to maintain safety, protect the environment, and reduce accidents. Officials said all measures are intended to make the festival safe and organized while allowing traditional kite flying to continue under controlled conditions.
