MULTAN - Irresponsible use of metal strings by some has dampened Basant festivities as Punjab government wisely took a decision to ban kite flying in the cities.
The use of metal strings has resulted in horrific incidents of death by throat slitting and serious injuries.
The Punjab government took action against flying kites and imposed ban in cities like Lahore.
However, the ban of kite flying in Lahore is a big cultural loss for people and the responsibility lies on those people who callously use metal strings and put lives of other people at risk. All Pakistan Kite Flying Association Chairman Khawaja Nadeem Wayn said,"We have given a proposal to the Punjab government for establishing a kite city outside the limits of cities. "We are still waiting for a response."
He said thousands of women used to earn livelihood by making kites at homes, but now they are sitting idle because of restrictions on kite-flying. "Kite-making had attained the status of a cottage industry and was providing employment to thousands of people, especially women," he said. Haji Manzoor, who is son of late Haji Saeed, former Chairman Kite Flying Association, did not adopt business of his father. He currently runs a tea hotel and is saddened that days of kite business are over. His wish is that days of kite flying on rooftops return again with their full splendour. In Multan, the families who were in the business of making kites blame the elements who are bent upon selling the metal strings for their selfish gains.
Renowned writer and columnist Ghazi Salahuddin is concerned at the situation.
He said, "It is important that people get the opportunity to participate in dramas, concerts and literary meetings and plays. Such artistic activities strengthen fabric of society, improve individual creative skills and reduce frustration in the society."