‘Call to withdraw stringent Kite Flying Act'

Business Recorder

12 hours ago

LAHORE: The Founder of Kite Flying Festival and a renowned social figure Khawaja Nadeem Saeed Wain has made a passionate appeal to the Chief Minister of Punjab to withdraw the stringent Kite Flying Act that has effectively banned this age-old cultural tradition.
In his statement, he said that kite flying is not merely a festival — it is one of the largest cultural and economic activities in the province, capable of revitalizing the economy and boosting tourism on an unprecedented scale.
He said that prior to the imposition of the ban, Punjab, especially Lahore, used to host one of the most vibrant and globally recognized kite flying festivals. Millions of foreign tourists would visit Punjab to witness the Basant celebrations, with hotels, restaurants, transport services and local markets witnessing record business. The event injected billions of rupees into the national economy and created seasonal employment for millions.
Khawaja Nadeem Saeed Wain lamented the massive economic loss caused by the ban, pointing out that thousands of families who relied on kite making, string production, safety gear, food stalls, music events and associated tourism activities have been pushed into unemployment.
'This festival had become a complete economic ecosystem, involving artisans, traders, hoteliers, transporters and small-scale manufacturers. Its revival would restore livelihoods and infuse much-needed cash flow into local economies.
He further warned that Pakistan is missing a golden opportunity by continuing the ban, while neighbouring countries are reaping the rewards. "India, after observing the success of Basant in Punjab, adopted and expanded its own kite festivals, especially in Gujarat and Rajasthan and today earns millions of dollars in foreign exchange through tourism and exports of festival-related products," he added.
Khawaja Nadeem Saeed Wain acknowledged the government's legitimate concerns regarding public safety and misuse of hazardous materials but urged a smarter approach. "Instead of banning the entire industry, the government should regulate it. With proper supervision, quality control and designated safe zones, kite flying can be made a safe and profitable activity once again."
He said that the recommendation of the committee formed for basant festival in Punjab should be finalized at the earliest.
Kite Flying Festival is not just a celebration of spring — it is a celebration of our identity, our entrepreneurial spirit and our hospitality. It brings colour to the skies and hope to the people.
Khawaja Nadeem Saeed Wain appealed to the Chief Minister of Punjab to take visionary steps and lift the ban, thereby restoring a proud cultural heritage and reviving an economic engine that can once again bring prosperity, joy and global attention to Punjab.
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