SOPs Issued for Basant Festival

The Punjab government has issued a detailed set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs for Lahore Basant) aimed at regulating kite flying and preventing injuries and fatalities linked to the festival.

According to the official notification, only specific types of kites and string (dor) will be allowed during Basant. Authorities have strictly defined the size, material, and design of kites, along with clear restrictions on kite strings to curb the use of dangerous materials.

Under the SOPs, a “Patang” kite is permitted with a maximum width of 35 inches and a length of up to 30 inches (4.5 githi). A “Gudda” kite may be flown if its width does not exceed 40 inches and its length remains within 34 inches (1.5 tawa). Any kite exceeding these measurements will be considered illegal.

The notification also outlines specifications for the kite string. Only cotton dor is allowed, with a limit of nine strands (tars) and a minimum of 28 counts. The string may be coated with maanjha but must meet a minimum mesh size of 350 and be wound in the form of a “pinna” carrying a specific QR code for identification.

Crucially, the SOPs ban the use of “charkhi” (spool-based) dor and any form of metallic, chemical, or glass-coated string, which has previously caused severe injuries and deaths. The use, sale, manufacture, or storage of prohibited dor will invite strict legal action.

Illustrations attached to the SOPs clearly differentiate between approved and banned equipment to avoid confusion among kite flyers and vendors.

Authorities have urged citizens to follow the SOPs in letter and spirit, warning that violations will result in heavy fines, confiscation of materials, and possible criminal charges.