Preparations for Basant are underway in the Punjab provincial capital, but the festivities are expected to be heavy on the pocket this year as authorities decide not to regulate kite and string prices.

According to sources, the Lahore district administration has decided not to fix rates for kites and strings (dor) for the upcoming Basant season. Kite and dor sellers will be free to sell their products at prices of their own choosing.

Officials said the move was taken due to market dynamics and limited time before the festival.

Focus only on size and material

Sources said that any action against kite sellers will be restricted to the size and material used in making kites and dor. Authorities will not intervene in pricing but will strictly monitor safety-related specifications.

This means enforcement teams will check whether kites and strings meet approved standards rather than how much they are sold for.

Expected prices of kites, string

Manufacturers said a taawa is expected to sell for between Rs150 and Rs180. One-and-a-half taawa may cost between Rs250 and Rs270. They added that a pinna of dor are likely to be available in the range of Rs2,200 to Rs2,500.

According to manufacturers’ sources, prices of both kites and dor could increase further depending on market demand closer to Basant. With no official price cap, buyers may see fluctuations as festivities approach.

Vendors said demand traditionally spikes in the final days, often pushing rates higher.

Price fixation planned for next year

District administration sources said work will be done next year to introduce a formal mechanism for fixing kite and dor prices ahead of Basant. Officials acknowledged that the lack of fixed rates this year may create affordability concerns for the public.

They said lessons from this season will help shape regulations for future festivals.

Authorities warned that strict action will be taken against the sale of kites and dor without QR codes. Only registered shopkeepers will be allowed to operate, and they will be protected after Basant.

It will also be mandatory for registered sellers to declare their remaining stock in advance, officials added.