A giant kite model is displayed at Liberty Chowk on the eve of Basant celebrations. Photo: NNI
LAHORE:
Kite enthusiasts from Punjab and Pakistan from across the world have arrived in the provincial metropolis, as Lahore prepares to host a three-day Basant festival today under strict supervision to avoid human casualties.
Banned in 2007, successive governments had toyed with the idea of reviving Basant, an essentially Lahori kite-flying tradition that later found roots in other major cities too, but the risk was always greater than the reward, forcing authorities to backtrack.
The Maryam Nawaz-led provincial government, free from the political constraints faced by its predecessors, has gone ahead with the risky decision to reclaim Basant, turning into reality what had long been a distant dream for Lahoris.
From ordinances to a spate of orders issued by the home department and district administration, a host of measures have been put in place to mitigate risks to human life, particularly those associated with kite flying in general and stray strings in particular.
The measures, which include requiring permits for large gatherings, regulating registrations on kites, restricting areas around airports and enforcing controlled sales of Basant-related items, have led to a sharp rise in prices. However, this has not dampened enthusiasm for the festival.
Even as prices doubled and in some cases rose further, people were seen queuing up outside registered dealers to purchase kites and strings of their choice.
Stores reported shortages of thread and related materials, leading to massive overpricing, a situation that became so serious that the government was forced to intervene. Four more districts (Sheikhupura, Multan, Faisalabad and Kasur) were granted urgent permission to supply kites and strings to Lahore.
Meanwhile, air fares have increased due to the large influx of passengers traveling to Lahore for the event. Many organizers even had difficulty finding barbecue chefs. The city itself has been decked out for the occasion, with giant kites set up on Liberty Roundabout and other decorative elements placed to create a festive atmosphere.
The nerve center of the festival remains the Walled City, where around 73 large events have been authorized. Outside the Walled City, outlying areas are expected to see colorful kites dotting the sky. Gulberg will also remain a focal point, serving as ground zero for government-organized events.
However, rising prices have made the festival out of reach of the lower middle class. Balls of yarn now cost between Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000, and can cost between Rs 22,000 and Rs 24,000 per pineapple, depending on the length.
Another concern has been the revival of Basant only in Lahore, which excludes those who cannot afford to travel and stay in the provincial capital.
According to Safe Kite Flying Association spokesperson Malik Faizan Ahmad, kites and strings worth Rs 1 billion have already been sold, with additional business of Rs 500 crore expected in the coming days. He termed this as a reflection of genuine public appreciation for the event in Lahore and Punjab.
Meanwhile, the government has left little to chance. Ministers have remained on the ground, monitoring agreements and addressing issues in real time. Provincial Minister Bilal Yaseen remained actively engaged in resolving materials shortages and concerns over price increases.
Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb paid a detailed late-night visit to the Walled City to review Basant’s arrangements. Security, traffic management, protective measures and general administrative preparedness were thoroughly inspected in Mochi Gate and other densely populated localities.
The minister personally supervised the implementation of standard operating procedures, including size checks on QR code kites in markets, the sale of QR code kite strings without reels, and strict compliance with safety regulations.
Implementation of the prescribed code of conduct was closely followed to ensure safe Basant.
During the visit, Marriyum Aurangzeb interacted with traders and citizens, who expressed satisfaction over the government measures and warmly welcomed the revival of Basant after 25 years.
On-site instructions were issued to officials from the Department of Home Affairs, Police, Traffic Police, Transport and Rescue Department 1122. Traffic routes, alternative detours, safety arrangements and all sectoral responsibilities were reviewed in detail to ensure smooth execution.
Speaking on the occasion, Marriyum Aurangzeb said that Basant is an identity of Lahore and the festival has brought smiles to the faces of Lahoris. He added that the entire government machinery is fully mobilized to ensure that the event is safe and well organized while Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is personally supervising every arrangement.
He warned that a zero-tolerance policy is being strictly enforced to avoid any untoward incident during Basant, and violations will invite strict action.
Appealing to citizens to act responsibly, he stated that as per the directions of the Prime Minister, 519 buses, 60,000 rickshaws, the Metro Bus and the Orange Line Train will be made available free of charge during the festival.
He advised citizens to avoid taking motorcycles on the roads during Basant and refrain from unnecessary trips, clarifying that motorcycles without safety bars will not be allowed. Motorcyclists should install safety bars or leave their motorcycles at home.
The provincial senior minister further urged residents to secure their roofs, complete all safety measures and ensure that parents prioritize the safety of their children.
