Basant in Lahore Extended: CM Maryam Nawaz Cites 'Disciplined Festivities' for 5 AM Extension

Lahore's Basant Festivities Get Extended: CM Maryam Nawaz Rewards Disciplined Celebrations

Lahore's skies continue to burst with color as the vibrant Basant festival, making its much-anticipated return after 18 years, has received an exciting extension. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced on Sunday that theBasant celebrations in Lahore are extended till 5 AMon Monday, delighting residents who have embraced the kite-flying extravaganza with enthusiasm and responsibility.

Initially approved for February 6-8, the three-day celebration saw an overwhelming response, prompting the Chief Minister to grant the additional hours. In a social media post, CM Maryam Nawaz shared her pleasure, stating the decision was a direct acknowledgment of the “incredible energy, festivity, unity, and joy” witnessed throughout Lahore. This extension, she emphasized,rewards disciplined festivitiesand the public's responsible adherence to safety protocols.

CM Maryam Nawaz Commends Responsible Revelry

Expressing her delight, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz highlighted that the extension was a 'reward' for the people of Lahore. Their commitment to celebrating Basant responsibly, coupled with strict observance of all prescribed safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), played a crucial role in this decision. She further urged citizens to maintain this responsible spirit, advising them to avoid electric wires, secure their rooftops, and rigorously follow all official guidelines to ensure a joyful, safe, and memorable event for everyone.

The Return of a Beloved Tradition: Basant's Background

The return of Basant to Punjab is a significant cultural moment. The popular kite-flying festival faced a ban in 2007 following a concerning rise in accidents. Tragically, sharp kite strings led to deaths and serious injuries, particularly affecting motorcyclists, while celebratory gunfire also posed risks. After an 18-year hiatus, the Punjab government, in December last year, made the landmark decision to lift the ban, albeit under stringent regulatory frameworks.

Lahore was chosen as a pilot project for the festival's revival, with CM Maryam Nawaz underscoring that the provincial capital's Basant was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the new security protocols and SOPs. This strategic approach aimed to balance the revival of a cherished tradition with paramount public safety concerns.

Strict Safety Measures and Regulations in Place

To ensure a safer environment, the Punjab government implemented a comprehensive set of directives for the Basant festival. Key regulations include:

These measures reflect a dedicated effort by authorities to mitigate risks and promote a family-friendly atmosphere.

Challenges Amidst Celebrations: Incidents Reported

Despite the comprehensive safety protocols, the Punjab Home Department's control room did report a number of Basant-related incidents during the initial two days of the festival. A total of 118 accident reports were received, including six tragic fatalities. Officials confirmed that four individuals lost their lives due to falls from rooftops, while two others succumbed to injuries in separate incidents involving attempts to retrieve kites from an electric pole and a tree. Additionally, 112 people sustained injuries from kite twine, highlighting the ongoing importance of caution and strict adherence to safety guidelines.

A Celebration of Culture and Responsibility

The extendedBasant celebrations in Lahore till 5 AMsymbolize a unique blend of cultural heritage and civic responsibility. CM Maryam Nawaz's decision to reward the city's disciplined approach sets a precedent for how traditional festivities can be revitalized safely in modern times. As the vibrant kites continue to dance in Lahore's morning sky, it's a testament to the city's spirit and its commitment to celebrating joyously yet responsibly.