Lahore police has placed security on high alert in view of potential accidents during Basant season, which is being held from February 6.
Earlier Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari had announced that Basant will be held from February 6 to 8 in Lahore.
The three day festival has returned to the city after 18 years due to a complete ban in 2007.
Police takes action against illegal kite sellers
In order to ensure foul proof security and minimisation of untoward accidents, police officials have started investigating the sale of hazardous Basant items such as strings and kites from different districts across the country.
Lahore police has commenced cyber patrolling operations in light of cybercrime on social media, following the sale of kites and chemical strings on various social media platforms.
So far police officials have arrested 60 individuals involved in the illegal sale of kites online.
The arrested suspects are said to have come from not only Lahore but other districts and provinces. Police officials further revealed that most attempts to celebrate Basant through resources offered by online networks have been foiled. Kites and strings can only be purchased from registered kite makers in the city, they added.
A citywide campaign has been initiated to install safety antennas on all motorbikes in the city to ensure safety before and during the festival.
Lahore police say that these measures have been set in place to protect the citizens and to ensure a peaceful Basant season.
Ban on Basant uplifted
Basant faced a widespread ban in 2007 after motorcyclists and pillion riders suffered serious injuries due to sharp strings and celebratory gunfire.
The Punjab government lifted the ban on Basant through the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance, 2025.
Police officials of the rank of sub-inspector have been allowed to make arrests and conduct searches without warrants on credibility.
CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz had approved the revival of a historic festival to be celebrated in Lahore after nearly two decades.
