Punjab restores Basant festival after 25 years with strict safety rules

The Punjab government has granted permission for the Basant festival to be celebrated in Lahore after a gap of 25 years, announcing that the event will take place on 6, 7 and 8 February next year. The decision was confirmed on Tuesday by Senior Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb in a statement issued on X.

Aurangzeb said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had approved the revival of what she described as “our beloved heritage Basant festival”, calling it a tradition deeply rooted in Lahore’s history and admired around the world. She added, “The Basant Ordinance 2025 will be fully implemented and enforced. Every kite string and every seller will be registered, QR-coded and monitored. Basant is the people’s festival, and its success is our collective responsibility.”

The provincial government has also launched a city-wide safety campaign ahead of the event. According to Aurangzeb, all motorcycles in Lahore will be fitted with protective antennas, with the installation drive beginning on Wednesday. “Safety is the Chief Minister’s top priority. Every kite and every rider must stay safe. Together, we will make Lahore both historic and secure,” she said.

The senior minister added that the return of Basant symbolised the revival of cultural vibrancy in the provincial capital, remarking: “Spring has returned to the city of heritage and festivals. Lahore’s sky will once again express its splendour to the world.”

The Punjab government had recently allowed kite flying under strict conditions and issued an ordinance permitting Basant celebrations. Under the ordinance, violators face imprisonment and fines, while individuals under 18 years of age are barred from kite flying. In case of violations, parents or guardians will be held responsible.