LAHORE – A petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court challenging the recent notification permitting Basant celebrations in the city. Advocate Azhar Siddique submitted the petition, raising concerns about public safety and past fatalities linked to kite flying.
The notification issued by Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza allowed Basant festivities on February 6, 7, and 8, 2026, under strict safety measures. The petitioner argued that granting permission despite previous tragedies puts human lives at risk.
Recent incidents were cited in the petition, including injuries to a young man and a girl due to kite-flying accidents in Lahore. These examples highlight the continuing threat posed by the festival. Advocate Siddique requested that the court suspend the DC’s notification until a final decision on the matter is made. The petition also called for the withdrawal of the permission, emphasizing that public safety must take precedence over cultural celebrations.
The district administration had granted conditional approval for kite flying. Authorities have outlined strict rules, limiting kite flying only to February 6–8 within Lahore district. Kite flying outside these dates is strictly prohibited. Businesses related to the festival are allowed to operate from December 30, while kite and string sales are permitted between February 1 and February 8.
To ensure compliance, the administration has introduced mandatory digital registration for all kite and string manufacturers via the “E-Biz” app and online portal. No unregistered production or sales are allowed. Additionally, spinning wheels are completely banned, and only approved pinna rolls of kite string may be used. Nylon, plastic, metal wire, bloody thread, or chemically coated strings are strictly forbidden.
Police and district officers have been directed to enforce these rules rigorously. Violations related to string material, kite size, or unauthorized sales will result in immediate legal action. Motorcyclists are required to install safety wires on their bikes during the festival period.
The petition before the Lahore High Court underscores the tension between preserving cultural traditions and ensuring public safety. As authorities prepare for Basant, officials continue emphasizing strict compliance with rules to prevent accidents and safeguard lives.
In other news read more about ‘Bloody’ Kite Strings Injure Two in Lahore as Basant Nears
The court will review the petition and decide whether the notification granting conditional permission for Basant should remain in effect or be suspended.
