Preparations for the traditional Basant festival are gaining momentum in Lahore, as the District Education Authority has decided to auction rooftops of selected government schools for Basant-related activities. The move is aimed at organizing celebrations in a regulated manner while generating additional revenue through officially approved venues.
According to officials, the district administration and Walled City of Lahore Authority have been formally included in the planning process to ensure coordination, security, and compliance with safety regulations. The auction process will begin after final approval from the Secretary of Education, which is expected soon.
Under the proposed plan, rooftops of several historic and centrally located government schools have been shortlisted for Basant programs. These include Government Victoria Girls High School, Government High School Delhi Gate, Government Boys and Girls High School Sheranwala Gate, and Government School Mochi Gate.
Other schools identified for the auction include Government School Kabli Mahal, Government Girls High School Rang Mahal, Government Krishna High School Rang Mahal, Government Model High School Takiya Sadhwan, and Government School Sheesha Moti Bazaar. Authorities believe these locations are suitable due to accessibility and crowd management considerations.
The list also includes Government High School CDGL Bhati Gate, Asifa Model School Sheranwala Gate, Government High School Chuna Mandi, and Government High School Gowalmandi. Officials said strict conditions will apply, including safety measures, crowd limits, and compliance with kite-flying regulations.
Separately, the Lahore administration is reviewing a proposal to declare four holidays during the first week of February to facilitate Basant celebrations. Officials said the possible holidays would help reduce traffic congestion, manage crowds more effectively, and allow the festival to be celebrated in a safer, more organized environment across the city.
