The Punjab government has taken a major step to revive the traditional Basant festival by allocating the rooftops of 10 government schools in Lahore. This decision aims to allow kite flying in a controlled and safe environment while protecting public safety and maintaining order across the city.
The move is part of the government’s broader plan to celebrate Basant 2026 under strict regulations. Authorities say the goal is to balance cultural traditions with safety measures that were missing in the past.
Selected Schools in the Walled City
According to official sources, the Education Authority Lahore has submitted a detailed report to the School Education Department. The report confirms that 10 government schools located in the Walled City have been selected for rooftop kite flying.
These schools are situated near Bhati Gate, Delhi Gate, Syed Mitha Bazaar, Shah Alam Gate, Takia Sadhwan, Kabuli Mill, and Choona Mandi. Government Victoria Girls High School is also included in the list.
These locations were chosen due to their historical connection with Basant and their suitability for monitored celebrations.
Key Arrangements and Safety Measures
To ensure safety, school vigilance staff have been instructed to remain on duty around the clock during the three-day festival. The Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioners will personally inspect the schools to review security and administrative arrangements.
Authorities have made it clear that school heads will be held responsible if safety preparations are incomplete or poorly managed.
The Lahore administration has also imposed Section 144 across the city to maintain law and order. Certain types of kites have been banned to avoid religious, political, or social tensions.
Basant 2026 Approval and Legal Framework
The Punjab government has granted conditional approval for Basant celebrations from February 6 to February 8, 2026. The event will take place under the Punjab Kite-Flying Act 2025.
A formal notification for Basant 2026 has already been issued by the Deputy Commissioner Lahore, confirming that celebrations will only be allowed under strict compliance with safety rules.
📌 Basant 2026 at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | February 6 to 8, 2026 |
| Approved Locations | Rooftops of 10 government schools |
| Area | Walled City, Lahore |
| Legal Cover | Punjab Kite-Flying Act 2025 |
| Security Law | Section 144 imposed |
| Monitoring Authority | Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioners |
| Safety Measures | Safety nets, wire protection, inspections |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why were school rooftops selected for Basant?
School rooftops provide controlled spaces where authorities can monitor kite flying and enforce safety rules effectively.
Which areas will host Basant celebrations?
Most celebrations will take place in the Walled City, including Bhati Gate, Delhi Gate, Shah Alam Gate, and nearby localities.
Is Basant allowed across Lahore?
No. Kite flying is only allowed at approved locations under strict supervision.
What types of kites are banned?
Kites displaying religious symbols, holy books, political signs, national flags, or images of public figures are strictly prohibited.
Who is responsible for safety arrangements?
School heads, vigilance staff, and district administration officials are jointly responsible for ensuring safety.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s decision to allocate school rooftops for Basant 2026 reflects a cautious but positive approach toward reviving a cultural tradition. By combining legal approval, strict safety measures, and close monitoring, authorities aim to offer citizens a secure and festive Basant experience. If implemented properly, this model could set a new standard for celebrating Basant responsibly in the future.
Rana Shahriyar is a dedicated content writer and contributor at 8171 Rashan Program. With a strong interest in social welfare programs and government initiatives, his work focuses on delivering clear, reliable, and easy to understand information for the public.