LAHORE: After many years, people in Punjab may finally get a chance to celebrate Basant again, as the provincial government has eased restrictions by introducing the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025.
According to reports, the Home Department has completed its recommendations and will soon forward them to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for final approval.
It has been learned that Basant is expected to take place in the first week of February 2026, though an official announcement is still pending.
Expected Schedule of Basant 2026 in Punjab
Earlier today, the government presented the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which sets rules for kite flying across the province.
Under this new framework, kite flying and Basant-related events will only be allowed with permission from the respective deputy commissioners.
Kite makers and sellers will be required to register with the government, while kite flying groups must also complete their registration process. Once registered, they will receive licenses for making and selling kites.
In an important change, the ordinance completely cancels the 2001 Kite Flying Ban Ordinance, and all previous actions under the old law have been legally upheld.
The new rules allow the government and deputy commissioners to permit kite flying at specific places, on selected days, and within limited hours.
However, the ordinance does not clearly explain what qualifies as “non-hazardous material,” a term used in connection with kite flying.
The ordinance also gives significant authority to the police. Officers at the sub-inspector level will have the power to arrest without a warrant, enter any location for searches, and seize banned materials.
The government can also assign these powers to any institution or agency when required.