Following a historic decision by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab government has officially allowed the celebration of Basant 2026 in Lahore under comprehensive safety measures to revive the cultural festival responsibly.
Deputy Commissioner Lahore Syed Musa Raza issued a formal notification confirming that kite flying will be permitted across Lahore district limits on February 6, 7, and 8, 2026, instead of restricting the event to designated venues. The decision balances cultural revival with strict enforcement to protect lives and property.
According to the notification, kite-flying materials will be available for public purchase from February 1 to February 8, 2026, while manufacturing and trade activities are permitted from December 30, 2025, to February 8, 2026.
The administration has made online registration mandatory for all kite manufacturers, traders, and sellers, which began on December 29, 2025. Registration can be completed through the e-Biz app or the official website basant.punjab.gov.pk. Only registered individuals and businesses will be allowed to operate during Basant.
Also Read: Basant Festival in Lahore: Dates, fees & safety rules explained
Key Conditions and Restrictions
Under the approved Basant safety SOPs, the following rules will be strictly enforced:
- Only registered manufacturers, traders, and sellers are allowed to operate.
- Kites (Patang) and spools (Gudda) must comply with prescribed size limits.
- Thread (Dor) must be cotton, containing no more than nine taars, and wound strictly in Pinna shape.
- The use of charkhi, chemical-coated, sharp, metallic, nylon, or plastic strings is strictly prohibited.
- All registered sellers must display their certificates prominently and maintain complete records of stock, sales, and movement for inspection.
- Motorcyclists are required to install safety wires on their bikes during the Basant period.
- Relevant government departments will assist district administration and police in enforcement to ensure public safety.
Deputy Commissioner Musa Raza reiterated that a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced against violations, particularly involving hazardous kite strings.
Consequences of Violations
Authorities warned that any breach of Basant regulations could result in:
- Cancellation of registration,
- Seizure of prohibited materials, and
- Legal action under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance, 2025.
The district administration emphasized that these measures are aimed at ensuring a safe, controlled, and festive environment, while preserving Lahore’s cultural heritage without compromising human lives.
Meanwhile, authorities have advised citizens to stay informed, as flight operations at Lahore and Sialkot airports may face disruptions during adverse weather or security enforcement periods.
