The Punjab Home Department has stepped up its crackdown on kite flying by implementing stricter penalties. Kite flying, as well as the production and transportation of kites, is now considered a non-bailable offense.
Recent amendments to the Prohibition of Kite Flying Act of 2007, approved by the Punjab Cabinet, have increased the severity of penalties. Individuals caught flying kites face fines up to Rs. 2 million or imprisonment for 3 to 5 years. Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional year of imprisonment.
For those involved in kite production and transportation, fines can reach Rs. 5 million, with imprisonment ranging from 5 to 7 years. Repeated offenses will incur an additional two years of imprisonment.
Special provisions apply to children caught flying kites. First-time offenders will receive a warning, while second and third offenses will incur fines of Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 100,000, respectively, with parents or guardians responsible for these payments. A fourth offense may lead to penalties and imprisonment under the Juvenile Justice System Act of 2018.
The government asserts that these measures are crucial for preventing the dangers associated with kite flying and hopes that the severe penalties will deter further violations of the law.
