Basant returns to Pindi under strict rules

RAWALPINDI:

On special instructions from the Punjab government, conditional permission has been granted for Basant in Rawalpindi city and cantonment areas.

The Rawalpindi Kite Association has been formally informed. Vice Chairman Muhammad Iqbal and Secretary General Nasir Javed have accepted the conditional approval and announced that chemical string will remain completely banned, with only government-approved kite string allowed.

In Rawalpindi Cantonment Areas, Basant Night will be observed on February 5 and Basant on February 6 (Friday).

In Rawalpindi city, Basant Night will be held on February 12 and Basant on February 13 (Friday). However, due to the new approval and the beginning of Ramazan in February, Basant Night will now be celebrated in January 2026 instead, on the second Friday in Cantt and the third Friday in the city. Final dates will be announced by December 10.

The association leaders confirmed that children under 18 will not be allowed to fly kites; in case of violation, parents or guardians will be held responsible.

Only thread-based string will be permitted, while metal or sharp string will carry severe penalties. Violations may result in a minimum of three years and a maximum of five years imprisonment, along with fines up to Rs2 million.