Lahore has witnessed a vibrant revival of festive spirit as kite and string sales crossed Rs540 million over three days, reflecting massive public excitement ahead of Basant’s long-awaited return after 25 years. Markets across the city experienced heavy footfall as citizens rushed to prepare for the colorful celebrations scheduled from February 6 to 8, marking a significant cultural moment for the provincial capital.
According to the Kite Association, more than 500,000 kites were sold on Tuesday alone, highlighting the scale of public participation. Traditional markets, particularly around Mochi Gate, turned into bustling hubs where vendors struggled to keep up with demand. Shopkeepers reported record-breaking sales, noting that families, youngsters, and professional kite flyers were all actively buying supplies for the festival.
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb visited key markets to review arrangements and assess crowd management plans. She urged citizens to strictly follow safety standard operating procedures to ensure that Basant celebrations remain joyful and incident-free. Authorities emphasized the importance of using approved materials and avoiding risky practices that could endanger lives or property.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz also announced a major Basant event at Liberty Chowk on February 7. A giant decorative kite has already been installed at the venue, drawing public attention and symbolizing the official revival of the festival. The event is expected to attract large crowds and will be held under strict security and safety measures.
To facilitate celebrations, the Punjab government has declared public holidays on February 6 and 7. The government has also allowed the manufacturing and sale of kite-flying material in Lahore and four other districts. Meanwhile, security agencies have finalized comprehensive safety arrangements, including crowd control, traffic management, and emergency response plans.
Weather conditions are expected to further support the festivities. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast cold and dry weather on February 6 and 7, with partly cloudy skies expected on February 8. Winds ranging between 10 and 15 km/h are predicted, creating ideal conditions for kite flying. However, authorities have strongly advised citizens to stay away from electricity wires and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent accidents during celebrations.
Also read: Basant 2026: Lahore Weather Forecast for Basant Released
