Punjab govt allows Basant in Lahore only for three days only

LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced that the Basant festival will be permitted in Lahore for just three days under a strict code of conduct and safety regulations.

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said that kite flying and related activities will only be allowed from February 6 to 8, 2026, and only in designated areas across the city.

She said that authorities have been instructed to impose tight restrictions to ensure public safety and prevent past tragedies linked to sharp and hazardous kite strings.

According to the Punjab information minister, the government has permitted manufacturers to produce kites and string in accordance with specified standards, while a fixed size for kites has been set. Kites larger than the approved size may not be manufactured or sold.

Azma Bukhari said that kites and string will be available only at designated points and will not be allowed to be sold everywhere. The purpose of this measure is to prevent illegal activities and the use of dangerous materials.

She said that complete plans have been sought from traffic and transport departments to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property during Basant.

According to the information minister, the government is trying to ensure that people use motorcycles as little as possible during the three days, while in some sensitive areas, motorcycles may be completely banned. A decision regarding a public holiday on the occasion of Basant will also be taken soon.

Azma Bukhari made it clear that strict action will be taken against those who do not follow the prescribed rules.

She warned that if any child is found flying a kite, their parents will be held responsible, and violations of the law may result in up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs1 million.

Under the new rules, kite and string manufacturers must register with the district administration and pay a fee, and sellers must also be licenced.

Registration fees have been fixed at Rs1,000 for kite and string makers and Rs5,000 for kite-flying associations, who must submit official forms to obtain licences and unique QR-coded certificates.

Officials have also set clear size and material limits for kites and strings — with only cotton-based strings allowed and no metallic, chemically treated, or dangerous materials permitted. Violators of the rules face cancellation of registration and legal action.

In addition, traffic and transport departments have drawn up plans to protect citizens’ lives and property during the festival, including efforts to discourage motorcycle use in sensitive areas.

Authorities are also considering declaring a public holiday during Basant days to help manage crowds safely.

The move follows the lifting of an 18-year ban on Basant celebrations in Punjab, which had been imposed due to fatal accidents and injuries caused by dangerous kite strings in the past. The government’s aim is to revive the cultural festival in a controlled and safer environment.