Lahore is bracing itself for a huge crowd as over 500,000 vehicles are expected to enter the city during the three-day long festival of Basant 2026. Authorities have announced special measures to deal with traffic and the safety of the people.
Deployment of Police and Traffic Wardens
A total of 10,000 police personnel and 2,500 traffic wardens will be deployed across the city.
Chief Traffic Officer Athar Waheed said more workers will be posted at the entry/exit points while cameras installed on rooftops in the Red Zone will conduct live surveillance.
Joint Operation Teams
Operation Commander SP Muhammad Shafiq said joint teams of 15 departments including rescue services, police, will be active throughout the festival.
These teams will implement standard operating procedures and ensure order. Officials said that strict adherence to the law might lead to Basant festival becoming a permanent occasion.
Skyrocketing Airfares
Airlines have dealt a major blow to Lahore-bound fliers by increasing air fares for them. One way fares from Karachi have increased to Rs68,000 as compared to the normal rate of Rs28,000-32,000.
Passengers said they were worried about the financial cost, as the increase in the cost comes at a time of high demand from visitors wanting to see the celebrations.
Rooftop Reservations and Holidays
Many visitors have already booked rooftops in the Walled City and other major neighbourhoods to look at the spectacle of flying kites.
The colourful event continues to bring in crowds from all parts of Pakistan and has emerged as one of the most awaited cultural festivals in the country.
Safety and Monitoring
Authorities have finalised traffic arrangements and will be monitoring entry points in the city.
The safe city cameras in the Red Zone will help carry out surveillance in real time to maintain a smooth circulation of vehicles, and safety of the people during the festivities.
With thousands of visitors flying and driving into the city, the city is preparing for an energy-filled and colourful Basant festival with a bit of traditionalism and a lot of planning that guarantees the festival is safe.
Also read: In which areas is Basant banned in Lahore?
