Residents of Rawalpindi defied the kite-flying ban on Friday, celebrating Basant with rooftop kite flying while chanting “Bo Kata,” despite safety concerns and ongoing police crackdowns.
Authorities said at least seven people suffered cuts from kite strings across the city, while a 35-year-old man was critically injured by a stray bullet allegedly fired during celebratory gunfire.
He was shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital, Rawalpindi, for treatment.
Children chasing stray kites caused traffic congestion in several areas, including Raja Bazaar, Pirwadhai, and Sadiqabad, forcing motorists, especially motorcyclists, to exercise caution on busy roads.
Police registered cases against kite sellers and flyers and arrested several individuals, recovering hundreds of kites and string reels. However, residents continued flying kites from rooftops, with many reportedly purchasing kites online due to strict market enforcement.
Some residents claimed discrimination, noting that Basant celebrations recently took place in Lahore after authorities allowed limited festivities there, prompting locals to ignore restrictions.
The Government of Punjab has maintained the ban, citing safety risks, as hazardous kite strings frequently cause injuries and accidents. Public opinion remains divided, though many residents support strict enforcement to prevent further harm.
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