Lahore is abuzz with preparations for the return of Basant after 25 years, with citizens decorating rooftops, arranging food menus, and getting ready for kite flying and “bo kaata” competitions.

Residents say the festival is expected to draw visitors not only from across Pakistan but also from abroad.

The Punjab government has officially approved the celebration of Basant as a safe and family-friendly festival from February 6 to 8.

To maintain public order and religious harmony, Section 144 has been imposed across the city.

Guidelines issued

Under strict guidelines issued for the festival only plain single-colour or multi-coloured kites are allowed.

However, kites bearing religious or political symbols, slogans, images of sacred figures, or holy sites are strictly prohibited.

Authorities have also banned the use of metallic wires and nylon strings and warned violators of strict action.

As part of safety measures, installation of safety rods on motorcycles has been made must to avoid the danger being entangled with kite thread.

Also, firing in the air, display of weapons, or any unlawful activity will not be tolerated, authorities have warned.

The government emphasised that while Basant is a recreational festival, violations of the law will face strict action.

Maryam reviews arrangements

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz visited Liberty Chowk to review the festival preparations.

Citizens welcomed her warmly, taking selfies and waving as she waved back from her vehicle, expressing their excitement for the festival.

Girl injured

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken a serious notice of an incident in Rawalpindi where a young girl was injured by a kite string and has sought a detailed report from the Rawalpindi Commissioner.

The chief minister emphasised that Basant festivities should only be celebrated in Lahore this year, while kite flying remains banned across the rest of the province.

She urged citizens to avoid using hazardous strings that could turn the joyous festival into a tragedy.

“People should prioritise the safety of children and citizens and take precautionary measures so that Basant can be celebrated in a safe and pleasant environment,” Maryam Nawaz said.

She also instructed relevant authorities to take swift and strict action against any violations.

Kite-flying around airport banned

In line with these directives, Lahore’s district administration issued a notification banning kite flying in areas surrounding the Allama Iqbal International Airport.

During February 6-8, kite flying will be prohibited in residential areas along the airport’s takeoff and landing routes.

These areas include Nadarabad, Gulshan Colony, Nishat Colony, Bhatta Chowk, four DHA blocks, Al Faisal Town, Joray Pul, Canal Bank Road, and Tajpura.

Minister inspects security measures

Meanwhile, Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb conducted a surprise inspection of Lahore’s inner areas and the Liberty Chowk last night to review Basant arrangements.

She visited Mochi Gate, Liberty Chowk, and other densely populated areas to ensure compliance with safety measures.

During the visit, people offered traditional shawls to the minister and also took selfies with her.

On the occasion, Marriyum Aurangzeb checked QR-coded kites and strings without spools, ensuring adherence to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) designed for safe celebrations.

“The entire government machinery is mobilised to make Basant safe. The chief minister herself is supervising every arrangement,” said Marriyum Aurangzeb.

She added that a zero-tolerance policy has been implemented to prevent any untoward incidents.

Citizens were also reminded not to use kite strings made with banned material and to avoid taking motorcycles out without safety rods.

The minister said that the provincial government has arranged free transport during Basant, including 519 buses, 60,000 rickshaws, Metro Bus, and Orange Line Train services.

Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary motorcycle travel and to adhere to all safety precautions.

No court holiday during Basant

The Lahore High Court and lower courts will remain open during the Basant festival, and courts will conduct regular hearings on February 6 and 7.

According to sources, Chief Justice of LHC Justice Aalia Neelum rejected the holiday proposal and directed courts to conduct regular hearings.

Weather to remain pleasant

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has said that dry and partly cloudy weather will prevail in Lahore during February 6-8, with temperatures ranging between 20-22°C, making conditions favourable for Basant.

Residents of northern Punjab and mountainous areas have been cautioned about rain and snowfall, which could increase cold conditions.