LAHORE: The Punjab government is planning to extend Basant celebrations across the province in the second week of March 2027, with measures being prepared to regulate kite production, keep prices in check and ensure public safety, sources said on Wednesday.
According to the sources, an administrative framework has been drafted to permit kite manufacturing at designated locations. The government is also working on a mechanism to regulate the prices of kites and strings to prevent excessive charges during the festivities.
The provincial government intends to introduce legislation covering Basant celebrations, including safety requirements and rules for kite-flying, the sources added.
The authorities are expected to announce the approved locations and detailed regulations in the coming days.
Last month, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz approved a 10-day Basant festival in Lahore, scheduled to run from January 29 to February 7, 2027. A one-day suspension of festivities on February 5 has also been planned in observance of Kashmir Day, according to a government spokesperson.
The chief minister said the festival would help revive Punjab’s traditional cultural heritage and instructed the relevant departments to ensure comprehensive safety arrangements.
Lahore hosted its first Basant festival in more than 20 years in February this year after the provincial government lifted the longstanding ban on kite-flying.
The three-day event took place under strict regulations, featuring illuminated streets, decorated roads and rooftop gatherings that continued late into the night. Authorities also provided free transport to facilitate residents and visitors.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb termed the celebrations a success for Lahore and Pakistan, expressing hope that the next festival would be even more vibrant.
The proposed province-wide expansion would mark a further step in the revival of the traditional spring festival, subject to the government’s final arrangements and regulations.
