LAHORE, March 10: Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi has said the traders whose business has been affected by the ban on kite flying will be compensated.

After addressing a book launching ceremony at a hotel here on Friday, he said the government was aware of the loss caused to the kite businessmen by its decision. “They will be provided with alternative business,” he declared.

The chief minister said the decision to impose ban had been taken in view of the continuous reports of loss of life and injury to the road users. Unfortunately, the traders and the people had not cooperated with the government in its efforts to prevent the loss of precious lives in Lahore and other parts of the province. The decision to ban the kites had been taken after careful consideration of the issue.

“Go and see the tragic scenes of the families who have lost their children, youth and the aged persons due to this bloody sport,” he asked the newsmen.

He said police teams were raiding the shops and places of making the harmful string, and the people found selling kites and strings would not be spared.