Lahore to host 10-day Basant festival from Jan 29 to Feb 7

BokhariPMLN)September 30, 2026The chief minister directed the authorities to organise the expanded festival to mark the arrival of 2027 and promote Punjab's cultural heritage. "The 10-day Basant celebrations will help promote Punjab's cultural colours and Lahore's ancient historical tradition across the world," Maryam said.

She also directed the authorities to put in place stronger safety and public facilitation measures than those adopted during the previous festival. She appealed to the public to demonstrate responsibility and vigilance during the celebrations to help ensure the protection of human life.

The emphasis on safety comes after the three-day festival earlier this year resulted in 17 deaths and 160 injuries,. However, sources told. The Express Tribunethat the actual death toll was higher, at 21.

Kite flying and manufacturing were first banned in Punjab in 2005 after more than 25 people were killed. The ban was intermittently relaxed in 2006 and 2007 but was reimposed in 2007 following a rise in fatalities.

By 2024, more than 2,020 people had lost their lives in kite-flying-related incidents,. More than 90% of the deaths were caused by chemical-coated kite strings that cut victims' throats or faces.