Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif is going to join the Basant 2026 celebrations in Lahore. He intends to spend a day in the Walled City and celebrate the festival with friends he has known for years and relive memories which are linked with the rich cultural heritage of Lahore.
Known for his fondness of the Lahori traditions, Nawaz Sharif has been busy in promoting safe and organised Basant celebrations in the past few months.
He conducted a number of meetings with cultural stakeholders, to ensure the festival is done in a responsible manner.
Having grown up in the Walled City he considers Basant as an important element in the seasonal and cultural identity of Punjab.
Nawaz Sharif also highlighted that Basant has the ability to boost Lahore’s economy
Basant Festival Arrangements
The Basant festival is held between February 6th and 8th. Local authorities, and public, have made extensive arrangements to make sure the celebrations go smoothly.
Flying Kites in the Areas Near Airports Banned
For safety purposes, the administration of the capital city of Lahore has prohibited kiting in areas close to the Lahore Airport.
The Deputy Commissioner Lahore issued the notification after approval of provincial cabinet and after the recommendations of Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).
Restricted areas are Nadar Abad, Gulshan Ali Colony, Ali View, Nishat Colony and Bhatta Chowk.
The ban also includes Defence areas K, Q, R and S, Al-Faisal Town, Joray Pul, Canal Bank Road and Tajpura.
Authorities have warned that strict action would be taken against those who violate it, in order to ensure flight safety and reduce cases of accidents.
Guidelines to Increase the Safety for Riders
Ahead of the festival, the Punjab government has issued some safety guidelines to the motorcyclists. Riders are mandated to use safety wires on motorcycles in order to prevent accidents.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the festival are also sent to the Home Department for their approval, which are to make celebrations safe and organised.
Also read: Basant likely to generate billions for Lahore’s food and hotel industry
