Basant is back!

Basant has returned — to Lahore. The eagerly-anticipated spring festival has the potential to begin a cultural reawakening, taking us back to a time when the whole city celebrated one of life's simplest joys together. However, it will is also a test of the provincial government's resolve to ensure there is no repeat of the horrors of years past, which led to the festival being banned in the first place.

While most older people will remember the revelry and colours scattered across the skies and rooftops, especially the havelis in the 'old city', far too many will also have traumatic memories of the bodies of their loved ones painted in blood after suffering serious injuries, and even death, after coming into contact with the treated kite string — known as manja. The widespread use and availability of manja, despite being banned, was the main factor in the entire festival being banned two decades ago.

The Punjab government's decision to permit the festival, under a comprehensive safety framework, honours a cherished tradition that boosts economic activity worth billions and showcases one of the most recognisable aspects of Punjabi culture to the world. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a detailed "safety-first" approach to Basant. Perhaps most notable is the mandatory fitting of safety rods on over 700,000 motorcycles, facilitated by free installation camps.

Free travel on major public transport networks is also a good idea to help reduce congestion and incentivise safer travel. That drones are to be used to monitor the use of banned strings is also interesting, though it remains to be seen if it works. And even the most thorough emergency response plan can only be as effective as the people implementing it. First responders, including police and Rescue 1122 officials, will have to be on top of their game across the weekend because the threat of jail time and fines can only be effective if they are actually imposed on violators.

Basant's return is a victory for cultural preservation. We hope the Punjab government does not let it become stained by negligence, and that people celebrate with abandon, while acknowledging that their joy should not be at the expense of their fellow citizens' safety.