LAHORE:
The Punjab government has formally replaced its decades-old kite-flying ban with a tough new law, ending the blanket approach and introducing a tightly regulated regime aimed at enforcing strict public safety checks.
The provincial cabinet approved the new legislation, which makes unauthorized kite flying an offense and gives extensive enforcement powers to police and district authorities.
Under the new law, kite flying will be allowed only with prior approval from the district administration and strictly within designated areas. The use, manufacture, storage, transport or sale of chemically treated, nylon or metallic string has been banned, with violations carrying severe penalties. Authorities say the revised framework is designed to address the long-standing safety risks associated with hang-gliding, particularly fatal accidents involving motorcyclists and pedestrians.
The legislation introduces mandatory registration for kite and line manufacturers and sellers, making unregistered production or sale a criminal offense that can lead to cancellation of registration and prosecution. Police officers not below the rank specified in the Act have been given the power to search, seize materials and make arrests without warrants.
All hang-gliding related offenses have been declared cognizable and non-bailable, ensuring speedy trials.
Penalties under the new law are significantly harsher than those prescribed under the previous regime. People found using illegal or dangerous strings face prison terms of between five and seven years, along with heavy fines. Separate penalties apply to those involved in the manufacture or trade of banned materials, while young offenders will be dealt with under the Juvenile Justice System, with fines recoverable from parents or guardians in the event of non-payment.
The previous law, the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Ordinance, 2001, imposed an almost total ban on kite flying across the province, criminalizing the activity mainly due to repeated fatal incidents. Although it was amended several times over the years, including limited provisions that once allowed controlled kite flying during the spring season, the ordinance was criticized for weak enforcement and ambiguity. The new legislation removes these exemptions and replaces them with a comprehensive regulatory structure supported by tougher penalties and clearer administrative oversight.
Government officials say the revised law reflects a shift from prohibition to controlled regulation, with public safety as its core objective. Special attention has been paid to protecting motorcyclists, who historically have been the most vulnerable to injuries caused by sharp kite lines. Authorities maintain that the intent is not to suppress cultural expression, but to ensure that any permitted activity does not endanger lives.
The law has come into force with immediate effect and provincial authorities have asked law enforcement agencies to begin implementation without delay. Officials have warned that there will be zero tolerance for violations.
IT city
The cabinet also decided to build the second largest information technology (IT) city in the province in Rawalpindi.
The cabinet set a goal of turning 2,300 young people into skilled professionals in one year.
Chairing the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed that each department will be required to complete inquiries against employees within three months.
The cabinet approved the installation of modern traffic lights. The CM ordered marking of zebra crossings on all roads and filling gaps immediately.
The government decided to establish an independent examination authority.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz raised an allowance for head teachers of government schools from Rs 500 to Rs 10,000.
The cabinet set a goal to export cattle by forming a livestock company. A reward of Rs 100,000 was also announced for traffic enforcers who obey traffic rules.
The CM congratulated Agriculture Minister Ashiq Kirmani and his team for achieving the target of wheat cultivation earlier than other provinces. The cabinet approved a policy to pay honorarium to imams of mosques. Approval was given to relax restrictions on temporary employment in various medical institutions.
