Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi chaired a high-level meeting to review security and safety arrangements for the safe conduct of Basant in Lahore.
The meeting reviewed preparations for holding Safe Basant on March 12, 13 and 14, 2027, and issued instructions to the relevant departments. Officials reiterated that a strict ban on kite flying across Punjab will remain in force before and after the designated dates, and violators will face legal action.
Dr Qazi said the Home Department has issued comprehensive safety guidelines to protect human lives and that all necessary arrangements will be completed before Basant. He said kite flying will not be allowed on unsafe or structurally weak rooftops.
He directed that rooftop walls and grills must be at least three and a half feet high and structurally sound. Building owners will be responsible for ensuring that rooftops used for kite flying are safe and fit for use.
The secretary ordered repairs to rooftops, parapets and stairways at authorised locations before Basant. He also directed the deputy commissioner to inspect old buildings and houses thoroughly. If any rooftop is found unsafe, kite flying will remain prohibited there even during Basant.
He further said that nearby electricity wires must be properly covered and that the rooftop environment must be made safe before the festival. City Traffic Police Lahore will install safety rods on more than two million motorcycles free of cost, while LESCO will protect relevant installations with safety netting.
The deputy commissioner will issue permits this month for the manufacture, transport and sale of kites and kite string within the prescribed limits. During Basant, PHA will remove and dispose of kites caught in trees, while LESCO will handle kites stuck on electricity poles and wires.
Dr Qazi said safety certificates will be mandatory for lifts in buildings during Basant, while storage of inflammable material on rooftops will be banned. First-aid equipment will also be required at all authorised locations.
He stressed that parents, guardians and event organisers must ensure the safety of children during kite flying. He also said district administration, police and other relevant officers will inspect rooftops being used for the activity, and the deputy commissioner will have authority to seal any building that violates the rules.
The secretary warned that building owners and organisers will be held responsible for any accident, injury, loss of life or legal violation during Basant. He urged citizens to prioritise human life over recreation and comply with all laws and safety instructions.
Dr Qazi said the complete ban on kite flying will remain in force before and after March 12, 13 and 14, 2027. He added that kite flying outside the approved dates will carry up to five years in prison and a fine of Rs2 million, while manufacturing, transporting or selling kites and string without permission will carry up to seven years in prison and a fine of Rs5 million.
He also warned against harassment, inconvenience to residents and indecent behaviour, saying such actions will not be tolerated. Citizens have been urged to report unsafe, illegal or inappropriate activity to Emergency Helpline 15
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