The Punjab government has taken notice of an increase in prices of kite-flying items ahead of the Basant festival. The action was taken on the instructions of the Chief Minister of Punjab to protect citizens from overpricing.
An important meeting was held at the Punjab Home Department under the chairmanship of Provincial Minister Bilal Yasin. Secretary Home Punjab Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi briefed the participants on arrangements being made for Safe Basant.
Bilal Yasin said the Chief Minister had directed authorities to immediately address the issue of rising prices of kite-flying equipment. He added that efforts are underway to supply the maximum possible kite materials from four districts of Punjab.
According to him, the administrations of Kasur, Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, and Multan have already been instructed to speed up production. Kite-flying items available in these districts will reach Lahore within one day.
Bilal Yasin said that ensuring sufficient supply will lead to a clear reduction in prices. He stressed that all possible steps are being taken to make Basant a “Safe Basant” for the public.
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He added that the Chief Minister of Punjab has gifted Safe Basant to bring back happiness for the people. The government has allowed the manufacturing of kite-flying equipment not only in Lahore but also in Kasur, Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, and Multan.
Registered manufacturers in these four cities will sell kites and string only to traders or sellers registered in Lahore. Bilal Yasin said the Punjab government ensured Basant arrangements in a short time.
He urged all stakeholders to play their role for Safe Basant in Lahore on February 6, 7, and 8. The meeting was attended by Special Secretary Home Zainab Khan, Additional Secretary Internal Security, Additional Secretary Prison, and other officials.
The government is trying to balance safety and celebration. Increasing supply may help reduce prices quickly. Safe planning could make Basant enjoyable again for families.