Official SOPs & Code of Conduct: Basant 2026
In compliance with the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore has issued the following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safe celebration of Basant. Adherence to these rules is mandatory for all citizens, sellers, and property owners.
1. Permitted Dates & Timings
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Kite flying is strictly permitted only from February 6th to February 8th, 2026.
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Any kite flying activity before or after these dates is a punishable criminal offense.
2. Material & Equipment Standards
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Only 100% cotton thread (maximum 9-thread/28-count) is permitted for use.
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All legal kites and strings must carry a verified QR Code from a registered manufacturer.
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The use of metallic wire, chemical-coated string, nylon (Tandi), or glass-coated “bloody” thread is strictly banned.
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Kite size must not exceed 35 inches (Patang) or 40 inches (Gudda).
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The use of traditional wooden spools (Charkhi) is banned; only round “Pinna” forms are allowed.
3. Property & Rooftop Safety
- Property owners must obtain an official NOC from the Deputy Commissioner’s office for any organized gathering.
- Rooftops must be structurally sound and equipped with safety grills or protective walls to prevent falls.
- Property owners are personally liable for any accidents, injuries, or legal violations occurring on their premises.
- Kite flying is strictly prohibited near airports, grid stations, high-voltage power lines, and sensitive installations.
4. Public Order & Section 144 Restrictions
- Under Section 144, kites featuring political symbols, flags, or images of any personality are strictly banned.
- Kites displaying religious scriptures, holy sites, or provocative slogans are prohibited for 30 days.
- Only plain, single-colored, or multi-colored kites without any printing are allowed.
- Loud music, DJ sound systems, and any activity causing noise pollution are strictly forbidden.
- Aerial firing and the display of weapons will result in immediate arrest and non-bailable charges.
5. Road & Commuter Safety
- All motorcycles must have Safety Antennas (Rods) installed to travel within Lahore during the festival.
- Bikers without protective rods will be barred from entering “Red Zones” and high-risk areas.
- Parents and guardians are legally responsible for ensuring minors (under 18) do not fly kites unsupervised.
6. Enforcement & Penalties
- Using banned strings carries a penalty of 3–5 years in prison and a fine of up to 2 Million PKR.
- Illegal manufacturing or selling carries up to 7 years in prison and a fine of 5 Million PKR.
- District administration and Police officers have the authority to inspect any rooftop or business premises at any time.
- Any violation of the Code of Conduct will result in the immediate cancellation of the event’s NOC and legal prosecution.
7. Airport No-Fly Zones
Restricted “No-Fly” Zones: Kite flying is strictly prohibited in areas under the flight path, including:
| Region | Restricted Neighborhoods & Blocks |
|---|---|
| DHA Lahore | Blocks P, Q, R, and S |
| Harbanspura | Tajpura U-Turn (Left & Right sides), Taj Bagh Scheme |
| Cantonment Area | Al-Faisal Town (All Sectors), Jorey Pul |
| Canal Side | Canal Bank Scheme and surrounding residential clusters |
| Airport Entry | Bhatta Chowk, Nishat, Ali View Garden, Nadirabad |
If you live in these areas, please do not fly kites from your rooftop. Police are using drones to monitor these specific corridors 24/7 to ensure aircraft safety.
