Basant returns under strict safety SOPs: Azma Bukhari

Says kites to be sold through authorised stalls, unsafe materials banned; free public transport arranged for festival

Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bukhari on Saturday unveiled the approved standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Basant celebrations in Lahore scheduled from February 6 to 8, reiterating that public safety and order would remain the top priority for the festival’s return.

The minister confirmed that celebrations would take place across the city under a regulated framework, according to a press statement. Kites would be sold exclusively through authorised stalls, cotton thread would be permitted and unsafe materials would be strictly banned.

“Motorcycle movement will remain restricted during the celebrations,” she said, adding that safety wires would be installed on motorbikes as part of security measures to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with the rules.

Minister for Information & Culture, Azma Bokhari, shares details of Lahore’s historic three-day Basant Festival as part of the Government of Punjab’s official #PhirAaiBasant campaign.
Under the leadership of CM Maryam Nawaz, and inspired by Mian Nawaz Sharif’s vision to restore… pic.twitter.com/buW3hjVEKv

— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) January 24, 2026

Public transport would operate free of charge on all Basant days, complemented by registered rickshaws offering supervised free rides across the city.

“Monitoring mechanisms will remain in place to ensure adherence to safety guidelines,” the minister added.

She urged citizens to follow the rules diligently to help preserve Basant as a safe and well-regulated cultural event.

Azma stated that all relevant departments were directed to create a safe, controlled and responsible environment for the celebrations. The “Safe Basant” framework is being implemented to prevent any untoward incidents.

The minister stressed that the provincial government was committed to reviving Punjab’s cultural traditions while ensuring the safety of citizens and the protection of their property. The festival, she added, embodied the province’s historic identity and cultural spirit.