Overview
- Punjab has authorized kite flying only within Lahore from February 6–8, enforcing Section 144, banning metallic or chemical strings, mandating QR‑coded cotton ‘pinna’ and requiring safety rods on motorcycles with violations carrying jail terms and heavy fines.
- Large crowds packed rooftops and public spaces such as Liberty Chowk as police, Rescue 1122 and hospitals remained on alert, with the government offering free public transport and urging riders to leave motorcycles at home.
- Acute shortages and steep price hikes for permitted kites and string were reported, prompting authorities to approve additional regulated supplies from districts including Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, Multan and Kasur.
- The Pakistan Airports Authority issued a NOTAM warning of heavy kite activity near Lahore airport, advising pilots to exercise extra caution during take‑off and landing throughout the festival period.
- Security measures included drone and camera surveillance, checkpoints and event adjustments, with a planned Liberty Square concert canceled following a deadly attack reported in Islamabad.