The Punjab government is set to regulate and formally permit kite flying under a new legal framework, as the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 moves through the provincial legislative process.

The ordinance, approved earlier by the Punjab governor, was presented in the Punjab Assembly this week and has been referred to the relevant committee for two months of review before final approval.

Under the draft law, kite flying will be allowed only in districts where deputy commissioners grant permission with the government’s approval. Strict controls have been proposed to regulate the manufacturing and sale of kites and string.

According to the ordinance, registration with the deputy commissioner’s office will be mandatory for all kite makers, sellers, and even kite-flying organisations.

Manufacturing or selling kites and string without registration could lead to up to five years in jail and a fine of Rs500,000.

The draft also imposes a complete ban on metal-coated, chemical, tundi, and sharp string, with violations carrying penalties of up to five years imprisonment and fines reaching Rs2 million.

To enforce compliance, the ordinance authorises a sub-inspector-rank police officer to carry out warrantless searches and arrests upon receiving information about banned material.

Once kite flying is permitted in any district, the use of motorcycles without safety precautions, particularly protective gear, will be prohibited to prevent injuries caused by stray string.

The ordinance also abolishes the Kite Flying Ordinance 2001, replacing it with a more comprehensive framework aimed at balancing cultural tradition with public safety.

Following committee review, the ordinance will require full Assembly approval to become law.