Basant returns to Punjab amid tight security, free transport and soaring prices

LAHORE: As Basant makes a closely regulated comeback in Punjab after years of prohibition, Lahore is witnessing a mix of vibrant preparations, strict law enforcement and heightened administrative oversight, with authorities aiming to balance public celebration, safety and environmental concerns.

Kite flying has been permitted for three days, from February 6 to 8, under the Urban Kite Flying Act, but officials have warned that violations will invite zero tolerance. Lahore Police have already launched a sweeping crackdown ahead of the festival, arresting 1,729 people and registering 1,645 cases linked to illegal kite flying activities this year.

According to a police spokesperson, ongoing operations have led to the recovery of more than 93,000 kites and over 2,100 spinning wheels, as authorities move to curb the sale and use of banned kite string. Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore said kite flying remains prohibited outside the designated dates, stressing that enforcement teams have been instructed to act swiftly against violators.

Senior Superintendent of Police Bilal Siddique Kamiana said strict implementation of the law would continue throughout the festival period to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

FREE TRANSPORT, EXTENDED HOLIDAYS ADD MOMENTUM

The provincial government has already announced an extended weekend with five holidays to allow denizens to fully enjoy the celebrations. Alongside heightened policing, the Punjab government has also announced free public transport in Lahore for the duration of Basant. Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said Metrobus, the Orange Line train and other public buses would operate free of charge from February 6 to 8 to ease traffic congestion and discourage excessive use of private vehicles.

She said the move was part of a broader strategy to reduce air pollution during the festivities, adding that environmental protection and public convenience were top government priorities. Aurangzeb said artificial intelligence-based systems were actively identifying pollution hotspots, while digital mapping was being used to monitor industrial and traffic emissions. Drone surveillance, she added, was also in place to keep a check on factories, brick kilns and vehicles.

ROOFTOPS BOOKED, PLANS LOCKED, PRICES SOAR

In the city’s historic core, Basant enthusiasm is visible on rooftops that have been booked weeks in advance at premium prices. Rooftops in areas such as Mochi Gate and Rang Mahal have reportedly been rented for sums ranging from Rs 2 million to over Rs 5 million for the three-day festival.

City administration officials said only structurally sound and spacious rooftops were approved for kite flying, while banners were placed on dilapidated buildings prohibiting rooftop access. Approved rooftops have been decorated in traditional yellow hues, floral patterns and lights, with searchlights installed to facilitate safe night-time kite flying.

Hosts have made elaborate arrangements for guests arriving from across the country and abroad. Separate daytime and evening menus include barbecue, malai boti, mutton tikka, pak gosht, fish, hareesa, sweets, fruits and dry fruits. Residents said the scale of preparations reflected pent-up excitement after decades of restrictions.

Markets across inner Lahore remain crowded as buyers rush to purchase kites and string, despite sharply rising prices. Small kites are selling for around Rs 100, medium-sized kites for Rs 450, while full-size kites cost about Rs300. However, the cost of kite string has surged dramatically, with two-piece sets selling for up to Rs 14,000 and four-piece bundles fetching as much as Rs 15,000.

Traders attributed the price hikes to limited supply, strong demand and cautious selling amid strict enforcement. Many buyers complained about declining quality but said the desire to celebrate Basant outweighed cost concerns.

LAST MINUTE TWEAKS

Authorities have imposed additional restrictions, including a ban on kite flying near airports, as well as prohibitions on loud music, fireworks and other hazardous activities. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to maintain a visible presence and act immediately against any breach of standard operating procedures.

Officials said Basant’s limited return is  expected to inject colour and energy into Lahore while ensuring safety remains paramount. From youth to elders, residents across the city are preparing to celebrate the festival under close supervision, marking a carefully managed revival of one of Punjab’s most iconic cultural traditions.