LAHORE: The Punjab government has intensified its crackdown on kite flying, declaring kite making, flying, and transportation as non-bailable offences.

The offences have been determined with the amendments to the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Act 2007, which now imposes harsher penalties.

According to a spokesperson for the Punjab home department, the new regulations also criminalise the production, use, and distribution of metallic string, wire and sharp-coated string, which are used in kite flying.

According to the amendments, individuals caught flying kites will face three to five years in prison or a fine of Rs2 million, or both. Failure to pay the fine could result in an additional year of imprisonment. Kite makers and transporters will face even harsher penalties, with five to seven years in prison or a fine of Rs5 million, or both. Failure to pay this fine could lead to an additional two years of imprisonment.

The amended law also outlines specific penalties for minors caught kite flying. On the first offence, they will receive a warning; on the second, a fine of Rs50,000; and on the third, a fine of Rs100,000. If the child is unable to pay, the fine will be collected from his parents or guardian. A fourth offence will result in punishment under the Juvenile Justice System Act 2018, which includes imprisonment.

Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2024