Punjab expands districts producing kite-flying goods before Basant

Lahore Basant – (Web Desk) – Preparations for Basant are now in full swing as the Punjab cabinet has approved the manufacturing of kite-flying materials not only in Lahore but also in four additional districts, marking a major step ahead of the festival’s return after more than two decades.

According to the official notification, Faisalabad, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Multan have been permitted to produce approved kite-making materials, with manufacturers required to register with their respective deputy commissioners.

Last month, the Punjab government lifted the long-standing ban on kite flying and allowed Basant celebrations under strict safety regulations. This year, the festival will take place in Lahore from February 6 to 8, bringing back a cherished cultural tradition.

Welcoming the move, Muhammad Yaseen, President of the Lahore-based Consumer Association, described the decision to allow kite production in other cities as a positive step. He added that bringing kite-flying materials from outside Lahore could reduce market prices.

Yaseen further estimated that wider availability might lower prices by up to 30% and suggested that kite materials should eventually be allowed from other cities across the country as well.

Lahore has been swept up in Basant colours as preparations reach their peak. The city is immersed in festive hues, with the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) installing a giant kite at Liberty Chowk.

Major arteries including Jail Road, Gulberg, Mall Road and other thoroughfares have been decorated, while lights, colourful decor and kite models have transformed the cityscape, delighting residents and visitors alike.

Speaking to Geo News, PHA Managing Director Raja Mansoor Ahmed said public cooperation was essential to ensure a safe Basant. He urged citizens to follow government-issued SOPs and adopt safety measures during the celebrations.

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Alongside the festivities, strict monitoring arrangements are in place. Authorities are conducting rooftop inspections using drone cameras, and every rooftop hosting kite flying must be registered, according to the commissioner. Rooftop registration for kite flying will only be permitted in line with administrative SOPs.

Quick response teams will check NOCs for every rooftop, with Commissioner Maryam Khan saying that there will be zero tolerance for violations during Basant. She also said awareness campaigns regarding the Basant code of conduct are ongoing in educational institutions.

Markets have been echoing with festive music and food stalls, reviving memories of a tradition absent from the city for over two decades.

Crowded markets, eager enthusiasts and bursts of colour marked the build-up to Basant in Lahore as women, children and youngsters thronged kite markets across the city to prepare for the long-awaited festival.

Historic Mochi Gate remained packed with buyers amid fears that kites would run out of stock, while the festive buzz, filled with music, food and colours, signalled the return of Basant after years of absence.

Provincial departments have also joined citizens in the preparations, with public transport buses adorned with Basant-themed artwork. Speedo and green electric buses have been decorated with Punjab-inspired colours and imagery, while free travel will be available on the metro bus, Orange Line, Speedo and electric bus services during the festival.

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Meanwhile, the Lahore deputy commissioner has constituted quick response teams in every tehsil to ensure public safety, monitoring and a swift emergency response during the celebrations.