LAHORE—Basant festivities have kicked off in Lahore after an 18-year break, but the joyous return of kite flying came with early safety concerns, as at least two people were injured by stray kite strings on Friday, local officials and rescue sources reported.

The festival—marking the arrival of spring and traditionally celebrated with colourful kites soaring across the sky—is being held from February 6 to 8 under tight safety rules after the Punjab government lifted the long-standing ban and introduced new kite-flying regulations.

Authorities have banned metallic or sharp strings and limited celebrations to Lahore with strict measures aimed at preventing serious injuries. However, early incidents show that even thread-based kites pose hazards when strings drift into public spaces. Rescue teams have been responding to injuries, and officials continue to urge spectators and participants to follow safety guidelines.

With the festival underway, public safety remains a top concern as the city balances cultural revival with risk mitigation.