Basant Festival Set to Make a Grand Comeback in Lahore: Punjab Govt Prepares for Safe & Regulated Celebration
Lahore is brimming with anticipation as the iconic Basant Festival gears up for a much-awaited return in 2025. After years of suspension due to safety concerns and legal complications, the Punjab government is actively laying the groundwork for a safe, vibrant, and legally compliant event that celebrates Lahore’s rich cultural heritage.
A high-level review meeting was recently held in Lahore, signifying the seriousness of the preparations. This meeting, conducted on the direction of PML-N Patron-in-Chief Nawaz Sharif, brought together top officials such as Walled City Lahore Authority DG Kamran Lashari, Lahore CCPO Siddique Kamyana, Lahore Commissioner Zaid Bin Maqsood, and representatives of the Kite Flying Association.
A Culturally Rich Celebration—But with Safety First
The festival is tentatively scheduled for February 2025, but all eyes are on a June 2024 rehearsal, which will serve as a dry run to test kites, twine, and crowd control mechanisms in a controlled environment. This mid-year rehearsal is key to determining the logistics, safety practices, and the effectiveness of the proposed zones and vendor regulations.
In a progressive move, kite strings and materials have been sent to PCSIR Laboratories to ensure they meet stringent safety standards. Only materials passing lab checks will be allowed in the market, minimizing the risks traditionally associated with the event. This is a notable step forward in making Basant both safe and enjoyable for all.
Walled City & Designated Gardens to Serve as Official Basant Zones
To prevent accidents and maintain control, officials have suggested limiting kite flying to the Walled City of Lahore and select designated gardens. This would allow for focused management and an immersive experience that retains the cultural aesthetic of Basant, without putting densely populated urban areas at risk.
This zoning strategy ensures festival-goers can enjoy the festivities in a safe, scenic environment while city infrastructure remains secure.
Vendor Registrations & Strict Rules in Place
To ensure full compliance with new regulations, kite and string vendors must register with the authorities. This move will help monitor the supply chain of kite materials and prevent the sale of harmful products like glass-coated or metal strings, also known as Charkhi, which have previously led to tragic accidents.
Furthermore, motorcycles without protective safety rods will be banned for two days around the festival to safeguard pedestrians and bikers from string-related incidents.
Participants will also be restricted to using up to two-and-a-half “tawa gaddas” (kite flying spools), a limit aimed at ensuring responsible participation.
Promoting Basant on the Global Stage
Beyond local excitement, the Punjab government is also developing a strategy to promote Basant internationally. With its vibrant atmosphere, colorful skies, and rich traditions, Basant Festival in Lahore has the potential to become a major cultural attraction for tourists around the world.
By ensuring strict safety measures and resolving legal issues, officials hope to revive this centuries-old celebration and restore it to its former glory—with a modern, global twist.
Final Verdict Coming Soon
The final green signal for Basant 2025 will be announced once all legal and safety-related matters are fully addressed. With government commitment, community support, and a focus on regulated celebration, Lahore may soon witness the skies come alive with color, joy, and tradition once again.