Punjab authorities have finalized arrangements for a three-day Basant festival, with government approval required for kite and string manufacturing.
Punjab authorities have finalized preparations to celebrate Basant from March 12 to 14, with strict regulatory and safety measures planned to prevent accidents and illegal kite-flying practices.
The decisions were made during a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi in Lahore. Senior officials from key administrative, security and civic institutions attended the meeting, including the Lahore commissioner, deputy commissioner, city traffic officer, DIG Lahore, and senior representatives of the Lahore Development Authority, Parks and Horticulture Authority and Water and Sanitation Agency.
The home secretary directed the relevant departments to complete all arrangements on time to ensure the festival is held peacefully and safely.
The meeting also decided that businesses involved in manufacturing kites and kite strings would be brought under a formal regulatory framework. Government permission will be required for the manufacture of kites and string, while illegal activities will not be allowed.
The Lahore deputy commissioner was specifically directed to prepare a comprehensive plan and hold an immediate meeting with kite flyers to brief them on government regulations and standard operating procedures.
Authorities also emphasized the need for comprehensive safety measures to prevent loss of life and property during the three-day festival. City traffic police, WASA and other civic agencies were instructed to perform their assigned duties effectively during the celebrations.
Basant has historically been regarded as a major cultural festival in Punjab. However, its celebration was suspended years ago following deadly incidents linked to the use of metal and chemically coated kite strings. Past celebrations were also marred by aerial firing and dangerous kite strings, resulting in fatalities and prompting authorities to impose restrictions in the interest of public safety.
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