LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized that Basant is a vital cultural festival that embodies the rich traditions of the province. She highlighted that the skies over Lahore are filled with joy and celebration during this vibrant festival.
In a statement, she urged residents to enjoy Basant responsibly and to share their happiness with others. She also advised the public to utilize free public transportation during the three-day event to ensure safety and reduce congestion.To facilitate this, the government will operate over 419 buses across Lahore, offering more than 60,000 free rides. Additionally, all 25 stations of the Orange Line Metro Train will provide complimentary travel, along with free services on Metro Bus, feeder buses, and green buses. Moreover, around 6,000 Yango rickshaw rides will be available at no cost during the festivities.
Maryam Nawaz stressed the importance of adhering to strict safety protocols. She emphasized that only approved kites and strings should be used, warning that the use of banned kite strings could lead to hefty fines and imprisonment. Prohibited items include metallic wires, sharp strings, bulletproof materials, and illegal charkhis. Flying kites is strictly prohibited in Lahore’s civil aviation zones. She also mandated safety measures such as the installation of safety rods on motorcycles and rickshaws, and urged citizens to purchase QR code-tagged kites and strings only from authorized vendors. Traders have been cautioned against overcharging, especially children.
The Chief Minister assured that all necessary arrangements have been made to guarantee public safety. Special quick response teams from 15 departments are operational in every tehsil to handle emergencies.Citizens are advised to exercise caution while flying kites from rooftops. In cases where parapet walls are absent, nylon safety ropes must be secured around rooftops. Flying kites without proper safety precautions will not be permitted. Surveillance will be enhanced through thermal drones, and police, traffic officials, along with district authorities, will be on duty to assist the public.
The response to the revival of Basant has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, particularly among young people experiencing the festival for the first time. Markets are bustling, traditional kite-flying zones are lively, and many are following safety SOPs diligently.Lahore has been decorated in vibrant Basant colors, rooftops are adorned with lights and decorations, and a record-breaking tallest kite has become a city highlight. The atmosphere seamlessly combines tradition, celebration, and safety, marking a historic revival after decades.
Early signs indicate a positive economic impact, with increased activity in tourism, local businesses, transportation, and kite manufacturing sectors. This demonstrates that a regulated Basant can preserve cultural heritage while supporting livelihoods.Maryam Nawaz has instructed authorities to conduct a comprehensive post-event review focusing on safety, compliance, and overall success. Future plans for expanding the festival to other cities or granting additional kite-flying permissions will be based on evidence, safety considerations, and the outcomes of this year’s celebrations.
