LAHORE — The Punjab Health Department has issued a high alert for 13 government hospitals in Lahore ahead of the Basant kite flying festival, scheduled from February 6 to 8, officials said on Monday.
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Hospital administrations have been directed to ensure the full presence of medical, nursing, and paramedical staff throughout the three-day celebrations. An ample supply of medicines, drips, vaccines, and surgical instruments must be maintained at all times. Dedicated emergency beds should be allocated, and lists of blood donors prepared along with arrangements for the collection of blood bags.
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The department has also instructed hospitals to ensure that X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI machines remain fully operational during the festival. Mobile and landline connections must be active at all times, and a comprehensive emergency response plan should be submitted immediately to the Health Department.
The alert coincides with the government’s issuance of a code of conduct for Basant celebrations under the supervision of Punjab Chief Minister Nawaz Sharif. The Deputy Commissioner of Lahore has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) permitting celebrations under strict safety rules.
Under the code, the use, sale, and display of metal, chemical, or glass-coated kite strings is prohibited. Loud music, DJ sound systems, aerial firing, and firearms are banned, and any form of misbehavior, harassment, or public disturbance will not be tolerated. Buildings used for kite flying must be structurally safe, and safety measures must be ensured to prevent falls or electrical accidents.
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Kite flying near airports, air routes, sensitive installations, electricity lines, and other prohibited areas is strictly forbidden. The NOC only allows non-commercial kite flying; selling tickets, food, or advertisements is prohibited. Authorized officials may inspect venues at any time, and violations of the code will result in immediate cancellation of the NOC.