Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced on Sunday that the Basant kite-flying celebrations in Lahore will continue until 5 a.m. on Monday, extending the previously scheduled deadline.
The provincial government had initially approved the festival for only three days, from February 6 to 8. However, in a post on social media platform X, CM Maryam Nawaz said the extension was in recognition of the “incredible energy, joy, unity, and festive spirit” displayed across Lahore, Punjab, and Pakistan.
“This is a reward for the people of Lahore for celebrating Basant with discipline and responsibly following all safety protocols,” she wrote. She also urged participants to remain cautious: “Please celebrate safely, stay clear of electric wires, secure your rooftops, and adhere to all guidelines. Let’s make this Basant historic, joyful, and safe for everyone.”
Basant was banned in Punjab in 2007 after a rising number of deaths and serious injuries, mostly caused by sharp kite strings and celebratory gunfire. The festival returned last December after an 18-year hiatus, but with strict regulations. Authorities limited the festivities to Lahore as a pilot project to evaluate the effectiveness of security measures and safety protocols.
The Punjab government’s rules for this year’s Basant allow only cotton string for kite-flying. Metallic strings and oversized kites remain prohibited. Additionally, kites displaying images of any person, holy scripture, religious sites, national flags, or political symbols are banned.
Despite these measures, the Punjab home department reported at least 118 Basant-related accidents in the first two days of the festival, including six fatalities. Four deaths occurred due to rooftop falls, while one child fell from a tree and another from an electric pole while trying to catch kites. Around 112 people were injured due to kite twine.
CM Maryam Nawaz’s extension comes as authorities continue to monitor safety closely, encouraging residents to enjoy the festival responsibly while minimizing risks.