Complete ban on kite flying imposed in parts of Jagatpura

The skies over Jagatpura will fall silent for kite flyers this January. Police have imposed a complete ban on kite flying within a 5-kilometre radius of Mahal Road and Hare Krishna Marg from January 2 to January 15, 2026, as the Indian Army conducts low-altitude fly-past rehearsals ahead of Army Day.

The restriction comes as military aircraft are scheduled to fly very close to the ground during practice runs over the parade ground area—an event expected to draw large crowds. Even a stray kite or sharp manja could pose a serious threat, officials warned.

Additional Commissioner (Law and Order) Rajeev Pachar said the decision was taken purely in the interest of public safety. “Low-flying aircraft leave no margin for error. Kite strings can be extremely dangerous during such rehearsals,” he said, adding that the prohibitory orders have been enforced under BNSS.

The ban will also cast a shadow over Makar Sankranti on January 14, traditionally one of Jaipur’s biggest kite-flying days, as rehearsals are scheduled that afternoon.

Dates and timings to note

• 2–4, 6, 8, 10, 12 & 14 January: 2 pm to 5 pm
• 5, 7, 9, 11 & 13 January: 9 am to 12 noon
• 15 January: 9 am to 1 pm

Police said the staggered restrictions match the rehearsal schedule and are essential to ensure law and order as well as the safety of aircraft, spectators and residents.

Residents have been urged to cooperate and plan accordingly. Officials warned that violations will invite strict action, stressing that the ban applies only during the specified dates and time slots.

For now, as Army jets rehearse overhead, Jaipur’s kite lovers will have to keep their reels grounded—at least around Jagatpura.