After years of absence from Lahore’s winter skies, Basant is making a cautious comeback. However, it returns in a form far removed from the free-spirited celebrations of the past. The Punjab government has approved the revival of the kite-flying festival under tight regulations. These regulations are designed to prevent the tragedies that once led to its ban. Notably, the Basant festival Lahore has always attracted kite enthusiasts from the region.
Authorities have granted special permission for Basant celebrations from February 6 to 8, restricting the festival exclusively to Lahore. The decision comes with an extensive framework of legal, administrative, and safety measures. These measures aim at ensuring public safety. They also aim at avoiding a repeat of deadly incidents associated with the festival in the early 2000s.
A Festival with Deep Cultural Roots — and a Troubled Past
Traditionally celebrated in late January or early February, Basant marks the arrival of spring. It has long been associated with colourful kites, rooftop gatherings, and cultural festivities across Punjab and among Punjabi communities worldwide. However, in Pakistan’s Punjab, the festival gained a tragic reputation due to fatal accidents caused by glass-coated strings, metallic wires, celebratory gunfire, and unsafe rooftops. The Basant festival Lahore experience is unique due to the vibrant atmosphere and local traditions.
These dangers prompted the government to impose a complete ban in 2007, ending what was once one of Lahore’s most iconic cultural events.
New Law Governs Basant Revival
This year’s return follows the introduction of the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which allows Basant to resume under unprecedented restrictions. The rules regulate nearly every aspect of the festival. These include kite size, string material, rooftop access, sound systems, and commercial activity.
According to official notifications issued by the Lahore district administration on the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, kite flying will be permitted only within Lahore’s district limits and only during the three approved days. Meanwhile, enforcement across the rest of Punjab remains strict.
Digital Registration and Strict Material Controls
Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza confirmed that standard operating procedures will apply across residential, commercial, and public spaces. District officers and police have been authorised to inspect rooftops and shut down unsafe locations.
A mandatory digital registration system has been introduced for kite manufacturers and sellers through the e-Biz app and the basant.punjab.gov.pk portal. Production was allowed from December 30. Retail sales are restricted to February 1–8. Officials say more than 500 applications have been received, with over 300 approvals granted so far.
Only cotton string wound into round pinna spools is permitted, each marked with a QR code for traceability. Nylon, plastic, chemical-coated or glass-coated strings, metallic wire, and unsafe spools remain strictly banned. Additionally, the Basant festival Lahore rules are being widely publicised to ensure maximum safety for all participants.
Severe Penalties and Political Restrictions
The ordinance also defines strict kite size limits for patang and guda. Violations can result in up to five years in prison and fines of up to Rs2 million.
To prevent politicisation, the government has imposed a province-wide ban on kites featuring political, religious, or provocative imagery, following reports of politically themed kites appearing online. Under Section 144, only plain or multicoloured kites without symbols or slogans are allowed.
Authorities have also banned 132 Punjabi songs deemed inappropriate from being played at rooftops, public gatherings, or commercial venues during the festival. In addition, Basant festival Lahore continues to inspire local music and art despite these restrictions.
High Alert Across Lahore
Law enforcement agencies have already launched raids across the city, arresting dozens of kite flyers, sellers, and manufacturers under a zero-tolerance policy. The Lahore High Court is closely monitoring the situation and has directed authorities to ensure full compliance with safety protocols.
Lahore has been divided into red, yellow, and green zones based on risk assessments. The Walled City is classified as a high-risk area requiring enhanced controls.
Emergency services, including Rescue 1122, mobile clinics, and hospitals, have been placed on high alert. Authorities are also distributing one million antenna rods to protect motorcyclists. However, concerns remain as this covers only a fraction of the city’s registered bikes.
Culture Meets Caution
Despite the strict controls, the Punjab government aims to project Basant as a cultural showcase, with official events planned at Lahore Fort. Additionally, discussions are underway to invite foreign diplomats.
Officials maintain that the revival is not merely about nostalgia, but about preserving Lahore’s cultural identity under modern safeguards. As February approaches, the city stands at a careful balance between celebration and caution. Its skies are set to fill with colour once again. This will be under the watchful eyes of courts, police, and a public wary of repeating the past.