Lahore’s district administration has requested more than Rs. 1.017 billion in additional funding for the three-day Basant festival scheduled for March 12, 13 and 14, 2027. The proposed funds will cover security, traffic management, emergency services, cleanliness and other arrangements for the celebrations.
The administration has submitted a funding summary to the Punjab Home Department. The request outlines the expected expenses of different government departments and agencies responsible for managing the festival.
The proposed funding is intended to support preparations across Lahore, including security arrangements, public safety measures and services for residents and visitors.
Major Share Requested for Security and Traffic
The Chief Traffic Officer has requested Rs. 461.8 million for security and traffic arrangements. This is the largest allocation listed in the funding proposal.
The Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab has also been allocated Rs. 200 million in the proposed budget. Meanwhile, the district administration has requested Rs. 199.8 million to deal with emergencies and cover unexpected expenses during the festival.
The Punjab Mass Transit Authority has sought Rs. 98.9 million for Basant-related preparations. Lahore’s Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations) has requested another Rs. 28.6 million for security measures.
The proposed allocations reflect the range of public services expected to be involved in managing the three-day event.
Funds for Cleanliness and Emergency Services
Several other departments have also requested funds to support the celebrations. The Walled City of Lahore Authority has sought Rs. 18.5 million for festival arrangements.
The Lahore Waste Management Company has been allocated Rs. 5.5 million in the proposal to maintain cleanliness during the event. Civil Defense has requested Rs. 3.36 million, while Rescue 1122 has sought Rs. 600,000 for emergency response arrangements.
These services are expected to support public safety, sanitation and emergency assistance throughout the festival.
Control Rooms, Checkpoints and Rooftop Monitoring
According to the proposed plan, authorities intend to establish control rooms, checkpoints and field camps across relevant areas. Officials will also monitor rooftops as part of the festival’s security arrangements.
Other planned measures include traffic control, rescue operations, medical assistance and sanitation services. Public awareness campaigns are also included in the preparations to inform residents about safety requirements and festival rules.
The district administration is also expected to take action against people involved in manufacturing, selling or using banned kites and kite strings. Enforcement measures will form part of efforts to maintain public safety during Basant.
What Happens to Unused Funds?
The proposed funding is intended to set an overall spending limit for the festival arrangements. According to reports, any money that remains unused will be returned to the government.
However, the requested amount is supplementary funding, and the proposal does not by itself confirm that the entire sum has been approved or spent.
With Basant scheduled for March 12–14, 2027, the proposed arrangements cover security, transport, emergency response and cleanliness across the city. The final funding position will depend on the government’s decision on the administration’s request.
Also read: Punjab Clarifies No Basant 2027 Notification Issued
