LAHORE: A man was killed when the string of a kite inflicted injuries on his throat at Iqbal Town on Thursday.

Daniyal, 24, a resident of Samanabad’s Sheranwali Kothi, and his wife were going somewhere by motorcycle when the string of a stray kite inflicted injuries on his throat. The youngster lost his balance and fell on the road. He was taken to hospital with deep cut on his throat and died after some time. The couple had tied the knot two months ago.

The incident once again exposed police’s negligence and the Punjab government also seems reluctant to take action against the higher-ups who make their subordinates a scapegoat.

The family and relatives of Daniyal protested against police for not ensuring ban on kite flying. They said hundreds of citizens were seen flying kites in the city, especially in the Walled City and adjoining areas, but no one took action against them. According to news reports, 12 people died and 10 others were injured due to kite string in the city from 2019 till March 17, 2022.

IGP Rao Sardar Ali Khan expressed his anger over the death of a citizen by metallic string and suspended supervisory officers -- DSP and SHO. He directed the RPOs and DPOs to adopt zero tolerance in crackdown on kite flying.

The IGP has sought a report from the Lahore police on the steps taken to curb kite flying and directed that all persons involved in dangerous sport should be brought to the book. He said the citizens should submit complaints on 15 against kite flying so that those involved in dangerous sport could be penalised.

Chief Minister Usman Buzdar sought a report from the IGP and directed him to take strict action against the negligent officials besides ensuring implementation of ban on kite flying.

Published in Dawn, March 18th, 2022