Two killed in kite-flying incidents on Basant’s third day as festival celebrations in Lahore continued to be overshadowed by safety incidents, including fatal rooftop falls and kite-string injuries involving children and teenagers.
Child Dies After Rooftop Fall in Shahdara
One of the most tragic incidents occurred in Lahore’s Shahdara area, where a 10-year-old boy lost his life after falling from a rooftop.
According to police and rescue officials, the child — identified as Ammar — had climbed onto the roof of his house on Baradari Road to retrieve a drifting kite. During the attempt, he lost balance and fell from the height.
Emergency responders confirmed that the child died on the spot due to severe injuries sustained in the fall. Authorities later completed legal formalities before handing the body over to the family.
Rooftop falls remain one of the most common causes of fatalities during Basant, particularly among children attempting to catch cut kites.
Teenager Succumbs to Injuries
A second fatality was reported in Bilal Ganj, where a 16-year-old boy died after falling from a rooftop while flying a kite.
Rescue officials said the teenager — identified as Abdullah — had been participating in Basant celebrations on the second night of the festival. He fell from the roof during kite flying and sustained critical injuries.
He was immediately shifted to hospital but could not survive.
Family sources said Abdullah had traveled from Sialkot to Lahore specifically to celebrate Basant, highlighting the festival’s draw for participants beyond the city.
Police shifted the body to the morgue via Edhi ambulance services after completing procedural requirements.
Child Injured by Kite String in Defence
In a separate incident, a child was injured in Lahore’s Defence area after being struck by a kite string while riding a bicycle.
The injured child, identified as Zain, suffered neck injuries when the string suddenly wrapped around his throat.
Rescue teams transported him to hospital, where doctors administered immediate medical treatment. Stitches were required to close the wound, but medical staff later confirmed that the child’s condition was stable and out of danger.
Kite-string injuries, particularly those involving chemically coated or metallic threads, remain among the most dangerous hazards linked to Basant festivities.
Rising Safety Concerns During Festival
The latest casualties add to growing concerns surrounding public safety during the ongoing Basant celebrations.
Despite awareness campaigns and enforcement drives, incidents involving rooftop falls, electrocution, and kite-string injuries continue to surface each year the festival is observed.
Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly advised citizens — especially children — to avoid climbing unsafe rooftops, trees, or power structures to retrieve kites.
Preventive Measures and Public Warnings
Authorities have urged parents to monitor children’s activities during the festival and ensure protective measures are followed.
Motorcyclists and cyclists have also been advised to install safety rods to reduce the risk of throat injuries from falling kite strings.
Emergency services remain on high alert, with hospitals instructed to maintain readiness for trauma cases linked to festival activities.
Festival Continues Amid Safety Risks
While Basant remains a culturally significant spring festival marked by color, music, and rooftop gatherings, recurring incidents continue to cast a shadow over the celebrations.
Officials stress that responsible participation, regulated kite materials, and adherence to safety advisories are critical to preventing further loss of life as festivities continue.