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The Lahore district administration has imposed a temporary ban on kite flying in nine areas of the city during the Basant festival, citing aviation safety concerns near Allama Iqbal International Airport.
According to an addendum notification issued on January 30, kite flying will remain prohibited from February 6 to February 8, 2026, in neighborhoods located along aircraft landing and takeoff routes. The restriction aims to prevent risks to aircraft operations during the festive period.
The decision was taken following safety requirements shared by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) and approved by the Punjab government under Section 6(1) of the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act, 2025.
“The restriction is necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft operations during Basant,” the notification stated.
The ban applies to localities falling under aircraft landing paths, including Nadirabad, Gulshan Ali Colony, Nishat Colony, Bhatta Chowk, and DHA Lahore Blocks R, S, and Q.
Kite flying has also been restricted in areas located along aircraft takeoff routes, such as Al Faisal Town, Jorraypul, Canal Bank Road near Tajpura, and Tajpura.
Basant celebrations in Lahore have long raised safety concerns due to kite strings interfering with aviation and public safety. While the Punjab government has eased restrictions on kite material manufacturing in selected districts, authorities continue to enforce targeted bans near sensitive zones, particularly around airports.
