Basant is back in Lahore with a three-day celebration scheduled from February 6 to 8, but the Punjab government has clarified that the festival will not take place anywhere else in the province this year.

Strict Rules to Ensure Safety

Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari said all kite flying outside the scheduled dates will be banned. She added that if Lahorites follow rules responsibly, the festival could expand across Punjab next year. Basant was banned in 2007 due to numerous deaths and injuries caused by sharp strings and celebratory gunfire.

To prevent accidents, all kites will carry QR codes, and manufacturers, string makers, and sellers will be registered and licensed. Only licensed individuals will be allowed to sell kites, ensuring unsafe or metallic strings are eliminated.

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Safety Measures and Cultural Revival

Traffic police will provide free safety antennas to motorcyclists during the festival days to reduce risks. Azma Bokhari emphasized that no compromise will be made on public safety.

The Information and Culture Department is also organising cultural programmes featuring music, food, and kite flying to revive Lahore’s traditional identity. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the government to ensure the festival reflects the city’s vibrant culture while keeping participants safe.

This year’s Basant marks the first official celebration after the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 lifted the ban, aiming to restore the cultural spirit in a controlled and responsible manner.