LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched a citywide campaign to install safety rods on motorcycles ahead of Basant. Officials aim to protect riders from dangerous kite strings during the three-day festival from February 6 to 8. Free ride services will also be provided across the city to ensure public safety and smooth traffic.
The campaign was inaugurated at Azadi Chowk by Commissioner Maryam Khan, CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamyana, and CTO Dr. Athar Waheed. Road safety camps were set up, and free safety rods were installed on motorcycles, with officials monitoring the process. Authorities stressed strict enforcement of safety measures, warning no bike will be allowed on roads without a rod.
Read more: Lahoris to enjoy four-day weekend on Basant Festival
To support the initiative, the Punjab Higher Education Department directed all public sector universities and colleges to provide buses with drivers for public transport. This measure aims to reduce congestion, facilitate citizens, and ensure safe celebrations during the festival. Officials communicated the orders via official channels and WhatsApp messages to ensure full cooperation.
The government has also regulated kite flying, restricting sales and manufacturing to Lahore district from February 1 to 8. Only registered sellers with valid NOCs will operate, and online registration is being cleared through the e-Biz app. Law enforcement warned of strict penalties for violations, including aerial firing and ignoring safety protocols.
Read more: Punjab launches safety rod campaign ahead of Basant
Authorities have set up 100 road safety camps across Lahore, installing 50,000 to 60,000 rods daily, aiming for over one million installations. All departments, including police, traffic authorities, and district administration, will coordinate to ensure Basant is celebrated safely, legally, and peacefully in the city.