Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz praised the successful revival of Basant in Lahore, saying it restored the city’s cultural identity. She lauded citizens for following SOPs and rejected what she called a politically motivated strike call.
Speaking after three days of celebrations, CM Maryam said the festival showed that rooftops and hearts were connected. She expressed happiness seeing the joy of Lahoreites after 25 years of limited Basant celebrations. The chief minister added that Basant holds deep cultural significance in Punjab and brings people together. Guests from across Pakistan and abroad attended, reflecting Lahore’s cultural appeal.
Safe Celebrations and SOP Compliance
The chief minister said citizens followed SOPs responsibly, helping ensure a largely safe Basant. Motorcyclists installed safety rods, and only 10,000 violations were recorded despite massive participation. Around one million vehicles entered Lahore during the festival. Clinics on Wheels operated across the city, while administration, police, and other institutions performed efficiently.
Highlighting a key safety milestone, CM Maryam noted that no deaths occurred due to kite string accidents. Minor incidents of rooftop falls and electrocution were reported, but overall safety improved significantly. She congratulated 15 government departments for their role in ensuring a safe festival. Citizens from other regions also followed SOPs responsibly, enhancing overall safety.
The chief minister also expressed happiness that the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, enjoyed Basant and learned about Lahore’s cultural heritage. She called the festival a symbol of unity and pride.
Grief Over Islamabad Blast
While celebrating Basant, Maryam Nawaz expressed grief over the Islamabad Tarlai blast. She prayed for patience for the bereaved families. As a mark of respect, Punjab government canceled all official-level Basant events.
Maryam criticized PTI’s February 8 strike call as politically motivated, stating that the public rejected protest politics, riots, and sedition. She said Basant’s success reflected public support for peace, culture, and stability.
In other related news also read CM Maryam Stresses Safety to Avoid Basant Tragedies
Concluding her remarks, CM Maryam thanked citizens, institutions, and visitors for making Basant memorable, safe, and culturally significant.
