A model of a giant kite is on display in Liberty Chowk on the eve of Basant celebrations. Photo: NNI
LAHORE:
Kite enthusiasts from Punjab and Pakistan from across the world descended on the provincial metropolis as Lahore prepares to host a three-day Basant festival today under strict surveillance to avoid loss of life.
Banned in 2007, successive governments had toyed with the idea of reviving Basant, a typically Lahori kite-flying tradition that later found its roots in other major cities, but the risk always outweighed the reward, forcing the authorities to back down.
The Maryam Nawaz-led provincial government, freed from the political constraints faced by its predecessors, took the risky decision to bring back Basant, thereby turning what had long remained a distant dream for Lahoris into reality.
From ordinances to numerous orders issued by the home department and district administration, a series of measures have been put in place to mitigate risks to human life, especially those associated with kite flying in general and stray strings in particular.
The measures, which include requiring permits for large gatherings, regulating markings on kites, restricting areas around airports and imposing controlled sales of Basant-related items, have led to a sharp rise in prices. However, this did not dampen the enthusiasm generated by the festival.
Although prices have doubled, and in some cases even increased, people were seen queuing up outside registered dealers to buy kites and strings of their choice.
Stores reported shortages of twine and related materials, triggering massive overcharging, a situation that became so serious that the government was forced to intervene. Permission was urgently granted to four other districts – Sheikhupura, Multan, Faisalabad and Kasur – to supply kites and strings to Lahore.
Meanwhile, airfares have increased due to a large influx of passengers flying to Lahore for the event. Many organizers even had difficulty finding chefs. The city itself was decked out for the occasion, with gigantic kites set up at the Liberty roundabout and other decorative elements put in place to create a festive atmosphere.
The nerve center of the festival remains the Walled City, where around 73 major events have been approved. Outside of the walled city, outlying areas should see colorful kites dotting the sky. Gulberg will also remain a focal point, serving as a starting point for government-organized events.
However, soaring prices have effectively put the festival out of reach for the lower middle class. Balls of twine now cost between Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000, climbing up to Rs 22,000 to Rs 24,000 per pina, depending on the length.
Another concern is the revival of Basant only in Lahore, which excludes those who cannot afford travel and accommodation in the provincial capital.
According to Malik Faizan Ahmad, spokesperson for the Safe Kite Flying Association, kites and strings worth 1 billion rupees have already been sold, and another 500 million rupees are expected in the coming days. He termed this as a reflection of the genuine appreciation of the public for the event in Lahore and Punjab.
The government, for its part, has left little to chance. Ministers remained on the ground, monitoring arrangements and addressing issues in real time. Provincial Minister Bilal Yaseen remained actively engaged in resolving material shortages and concerns over rising prices.
Provincial Chief Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb made a detailed late evening visit to the walled city to review Basant’s arrangements. Security, traffic management, security measures and overall administrative preparedness were thoroughly inspected at Mochi Gate and other densely populated localities.
The State Minister personally supervised the implementation of standard operating procedures, including checking the size of QR code kites in markets, selling QR code kite strings without spools and strict adherence to safety regulations.
The implementation of the code of conduct prescribed to ensure the safety of Basant has been closely monitored.
During the visit, Marriyum Aurangzeb interacted with traders and citizens, who expressed satisfaction with the government measures and warmly welcomed the revival of Basant after 25 years.
On-site instructions were given to officials from the Ministry of the Interior, police, traffic police, transport department and Rescue 1122. Traffic routes, alternative diversions, security arrangements and all sectoral responsibilities were examined in detail to ensure smooth execution.
Speaking on the occasion, Marriyum Aurangzeb said that Basant is an identity of Lahore and the festival brought smiles to the faces of Lahoris. She added that the entire government machinery is fully mobilized to ensure that the event is safe and well-organized, while Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is personally monitoring every arrangement.
She warned that a zero tolerance policy was strictly enforced to avoid any untoward incident during Basant, and violations would call for strict action.
Appealing to citizens to act responsibly, she said on the instructions of the chief minister, 519 buses, 60,000 autorickshaws, metro bus and orange line train will be provided free of charge during the festival.
She advised citizens to avoid putting motorcycles on the roads during Basant and refrain from unnecessary travel, clarifying that motorcycles without safety bars will not be allowed. Motorcyclists must either install crash bars or keep their motorcycles at home.
The provincial minister further urged residents to secure their roofs, take all safety measures and ensure that parents prioritize the safety of their children.
