Lahore gears up to celebrate ‘Basant colors’  

Lahore gears up to celebrate Basant

The colourful event of Basant is now returning to Lahore after a long wait of 18 years as preparations for the traditional spring festival is in full swing across the provincial capital.

The city administration finalising arrangements to decorate major roads and public spaces in vibrant Basanti colours.

The Lahore deputy commissioner (DC) gave the formal go-ahead for celebrating Basant in the district from February 6 to 8.

The sources revealed that the registration process for kite sellers, manufacturers, and traders is currently underway through the e-Biz portal.

As per the portal’s report, a total of 993 applications have been received so far. Of these, 650 applications have been approved, 58 have been rejected, while field surveys for 284 applications are still in progress.

The report further states that out of 530 applications submitted for the sale of kites and strings, 340 have been approved. Meanwhile, 218 registered manufacturers have been granted permission to produce kites and kite strings.

The city administration has announced that 23 major highways and thoroughfares in Lahore will be decorated to mark the occasion. Key locations including Ravi Toll Plaza, GT Road, Pine Avenue, Niazi Interchange, Azadi Chowk, Circular Garden, Shahrah-e-Quaid, Shadman, and MM Alam Road will reflect the festive spirit of Basant.

In a move to further make celebrations more jubilant authorities have also decided to relax the sound system act during Basant, allowing citizens to enjoy loud music alongside kite flying festivities.

Officials added that registered kite and string manufacturers have already permitted to begin production from December 30, while approved kite vendors will be allowed to sell kites and strings starting February 1.