Punjab govt bans kite-flying in areas around Lahore Airport

Punjab Home Department has decided to impose a complete ban on kite-flying in areas around Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIA), reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Monday.

According to details, this decision was taken to ensure smooth and uninterrupted flight operations.

As the Basant Festival is approaching fast, the rate of kite and string increased marginally.

In Baghbanpura Bazar, one tawa guda is being sold for Rs 300 to Rs 350, and one and a half tawa guda is selling for Rs450 to Rs550.

A two-piece door panel was sold for 12,000 rupees and went up to 15,000 rupees.

A shopkeeper said that they are unable to fullfill demands of kite-flyers. One citizen said that there is no official rate for kite who have stocks; they are free to sell the kite on his own prices.

Provincial Minister for Information Azma Bokhari said that the Punjab government approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Basant Festival.

She said that the Punjab government is strictly ensuring the implementation of SOPS. Azma Bokhari said that QR Code will be displayed on the string pinna and kites.

All relevant data of kite sellers and buyers will be available. She said that the Punjab government will provide free service of buses, rickshaw and taxis. She advised the citizens to ensure the implementation of SOPs.

Azma Bokhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz provided an opportunity to the people of Punjab to celebrate Basant Festival after a lapse of 25 years.

Reporters: Qaisar Khokhar, Saeed Ahmad Saeed