Preparations are in full swing for a two-day Basant festival in Lahore’s historic Walled City, as officials finalize plans to ensure a safe and organized celebration. The initiative marks the provincial government’s effort to revive the city’s cultural heritage while maintaining strict safety protocols.

The Deputy Commissioner of Lahore presented a detailed “Safe Basant Plan” during a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The meeting focused on evaluating logistics, security, and regulatory measures for the festival, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday at designated sites within the inner city.

According to official proposals, the Basant celebrations will be limited to specific zones including Shahi Qila, Mochi Gate, Bhati Gate, and Rang Mahal. The restricted scope is designed to prevent overcrowding and ensure that all participants adhere to safety guidelines.

One of the central features of the Safe Basant Plan is the introduction of mandatory barcodes on both kites and strings. This measure aims to track and regulate sales, ensuring that only licensed vendors participate in the event. Authorities have also proposed strict penalties for those selling or flying unregistered kites.

To address long-standing safety concerns, the use of sharp metal, nylon, and chemical-coated strings will be completely prohibited. Only cotton or starch-based strings will be allowed, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries. The administration will coordinate with law enforcement agencies to conduct spot inspections and enforce compliance throughout the event.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized that the festival’s revival should reflect the city’s vibrant cultural traditions without compromising public safety. She directed the concerned departments to finalize preparations in collaboration with the Lahore district administration, ensuring the event’s smooth execution.

Basant, traditionally celebrated as a festival of color, music, and community spirit, has deep roots in Lahore’s cultural identity. The event’s return in a controlled and monitored form symbolizes the government’s commitment to restoring the city’s festive charm while upholding safety and regulatory standards.

If approved, this year’s celebration will serve as a model for future festivals, combining cultural preservation with responsible public management.