One dead, five injured in kite-flying incidents during Basant in Lahore

LAHORE: The provincial capital witnessed a series of tragic incidents during Basant celebrations as kite flying accidents claimed the life of a young man and left at least five others injured across different parts of Lahore.

According to Rescue 1122 officials, 25-year-old Ali Rashid Kati lost his life in the Baghbanpura area near Sikh Canal after climbing an electricity pole to retrieve a kite. He was electrocuted and died on the spot. Rescue teams reached the scene and shifted the body after completing legal formalities.

In another incident in Defence Phase V, a young man identified as Rafi sustained injuries when a sharp kite string slashed his neck. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Similar string-related accidents were reported from Gulshan-e-Ravi, where eight-year-old Arsa and 45-year-old Shabbir were injured after kite strings became entangled around them. Both victims were shifted to hospital, where they are receiving medical care.

Meanwhile, 12-year-old Abdul Wahid was injured in the Lower Mall area after falling while running during kite flying. In a separate incident in Gulshan-e-Ravi, 14-year-old Salman fell from a tree while attempting to fly a kite, sustaining injuries.

Rescue officials confirmed that all injured individuals were provided immediate medical assistance and remain under treatment.

Authorities noted that kite flying during Basant leads to a spike in accidents every year, particularly due to the use of sharp strings and dangerous practices such as climbing electric poles and chasing cut kites.

Officials have urged citizens to exercise caution, avoid risky kite-flying activities, and prioritize safety to prevent further loss of life during festive celebrations.