Lahore skies set for 10-day Basant

Punjab CM approves rescheduling of festival

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has rescheduled Basant 2027 in Lahore, extending the festival to 10 days from January 29 to February 7, with a break on February 5 to observe Kashmir Day.

The revised schedule replaces the three-day festival earlier announced for March 12 to 14, 2027.

The chief minister had announced the March dates in August, but approved the revised schedule at a meeting on Wednesday.

She directed authorities to organise the 10-day festival as a gift for the people of Lahore to mark the arrival of the new year.

She said the extended celebrations would help promote Punjab's cultural heritage and Lahore's traditional identity.

"The 10-day Basant celebrations will help promote Punjab's cultural colours and Lahore's ancient historical tradition across the world," she said.

The chief minister directed the relevant departments to make arrangements well in advance and ensure stronger measures for public safety and convenience than those adopted during the previous festival.

She appealed to citizens to celebrate responsibly and stressed that strict adherence to safety regulations would be essential for the success of the extended festivities.

The revised schedule comes as the provincial and district administrations continue preparations for Basant 2027 under a framework regulating kite flying, manufacturing, sale and transportation along with string.

The Lahore district administration had earlier announced that kite flying would be permitted only during designated festival dates and that chemical-coated, metallic and sharp strings would remain prohibited.

Registration of kite manufacturers began on September 5, with licences to be issued only to manufacturers meeting the prescribed legal requirements.

Assistant commissioners have been directed to verify manufacturers' credentials and inspect their premises.

Lahore Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Muhammad Ali Ijaz has also directed the administration to ensure strict monitoring of kite-making material and said only approved sizes and cotton string would be permitted.

The district administration has launched the Basant 2027 registration process through a portal, with manufacturers and other stakeholders required to complete the prescribed registration and approval process.

The government has also announced stringent penalties for violations of the kite-flying regulations, including restrictions on the manufacture, transportation and use of prohibited string.

The latest decision follows the revival of Basant in Lahore earlier this year after a prolonged ban. The festival was held from February 6 to 8 under restrictions aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring public safety.

For the 2027 festival, authorities have been directed to improve safety arrangements and public facilitation, particularly at rooftops and other locations where kite flying will be permitted.

The government has also been preparing cultural and beautification activities for the festival, including decorations along major roads, parks and green belts, as well as cultural displays and events showcasing Lahore's heritage.

The Walled City is also being considered for cultural activities featuring traditional Basant colours, food stalls offering local cuisine and live performances by musicians and artistes.

The government has said the preparations are aimed at reviving Lahore's cultural vibrancy while ensuring a safe environment for citizens.