Basant 2026: Lahore’s Historic Spring Revival Begins Amid Massive Safety Crackdown and Long Weekend

By 24 Urdu News HD Desk | February 6, 2026

LAHORE - The "City of Gardens" is transforming into a city of kites as Lahore officially kicks off the three-day Basant Festival (February 6-8, 2026). Marking its return after a historic 18-year suspension, the Punjab government has turned the city into a regulated "Safety Zone" to ensure that the joy of spring doesn't turn into a repeat of past tragedies.

The Long Weekend: 4 Days of Festivity

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially notified a provincial holiday for February 6 and 7. Combined with Kashmir Day (Feb 5) and Sunday, Lahoris are enjoying a 4-day long weekend. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, dry weather with light north-westerly winds (10-15 km/h) is expected, creating perfect conditions for kite flying.

New Tech for 2026: QR Codes and Smart Monitoring

For the first time in history, kite flying has gone digital. Under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act 2025, every legal kite and spool of cotton string must carry a QR code.

• The Rule: Scanning the code verifies the material as "pure cotton."
• The Penalty: Metallic, nylon, and glass-coated strings are strictly banned, with over 600 FIRs already registered this week against illegal manufacturers.

Motorcycle Safety: 700,000 Antennas Installed

To prevent the horrific neck injuries of the past, the Lahore administration has made safety rods (antennas) mandatory on all motorcycles.

    "Motorcycles without safety rods will be impounded immediately," warned the CCPO Lahore. To             facilitate citizens, the government has set up free installation camps at Azadi Chowk and Liberty          Chowk.

Red, Yellow, and Green Zones

Lahore has been divided into three security tiers:

1. Red Zones: High-risk congested areas where entry without motorcycle antennas is prohibited.
2. Yellow Zones: Moderate monitoring areas.
3. Green Zones: Open areas and designated parks like Greater Iqbal Park and Jallo Park, where medical camps and rescue units are on standby.

Watch: Complete government SOPs for Basant 2026, including penalties, travel perks, and safety zones.

Emergency Readiness

Thirteen major government hospitals, including Mayo and Services Hospital, are on high alert.The  Punjab Health Department has ensured that 24/7 trauma teams and blood banks are prepared for any rooftop falls or string-related emergencies.

24 Urdu News HD Desk

24 Urdu News HD Desk is the editorial team delivering verified and timely news from Pakistan and around the world. Our coverage includes national, international, business, sports, technology, health, science, and entertainment news, following responsible journalism standards.

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