Punjab’s Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb on Friday noted that the colourful and successful Basant celebrations are regaining momentum after years, calling on parents and citizens to ensure strict adherence to safety measures, as the future of this cultural tradition rests on public responsibility.
While speaking exclusively to a local news channel, she said that under strict security arrangements, the successful Basant celebrations are gaining momentum, crediting Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her continuous efforts over the past one and a half years to revive the festival.
She said the decision to bring back Basant was a bold and courageous step taken in the public interest, especially for the youth of Lahore.
She said parents have a crucial responsibility in ensuring safety, urging them to keep children away from rooftops and electric wires.
The minister stressed that responsible public conduct will decide whether Basant is celebrated again next year and whether the festival can be expanded across Punjab with additional safety measures.
She explained that the responsibility for safety during the festivities lies with everyone, including men and women alike, and appealed to parents to remain vigilant by keeping children away from rooftops and electric wires.
She stressed that collective responsibility and cautious behavior by all citizens will determine whether Basant is celebrated next year and expanded across Punjab with further safety measures.
Separately, Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari stated that Lahore has once again proven it is a city of vibrant and lively people where joy and cultural traditions are celebrated with great enthusiasm. She said that an important cultural decision by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has won the hearts of the public, restoring people’s happiness through the revival of Basant celebrations.
She added that not only citizens from across Pakistan but also a large number of overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors from different countries have arrived in Lahore to celebrate Basant, creating a colorful and festive atmosphere throughout the city. According to her, Lahore and its skies are now filled with the beautiful colors of Basant.
Azma Bokhari urged citizens to celebrate the festival responsibly and ensure the safety of others as well. She emphasized that no motorcyclist should travel on the roads without a safety rod, while police and district administration teams are strictly ensuring implementation of SOPs.
She further advised citizens to use only QR-code approved string and kites, adding that individuals flying kites from rooftops must also follow all safety guidelines and SOPs. She noted that due to increased supply, the prices of kites and string have significantly decreased, and with additional supply expected by the evening, prices are likely to drop further.
She expressed hope that the public will celebrate Basant responsibly, enjoy the festivities, and contribute to maintaining a safe and pleasant environment for everyone.