LAHORE: The Punjab government today notified two holidays across the province on February 6 and 7 to celebrate Basant. The provincial government announced the two holidays’ notification on Wednesday.
The Services and General Administration Department circulated the order, confirming that Friday and Saturday will be observed as provincial holidays.
Long weekend
Earlier, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had already signalled a prolonged holiday period. In a post on X, she announced that Punjab would observe a long weekend beginning with Kashmir Day on February 5, followed by the Basant holiday on February 6 and the regular weekend.
She encouraged citizens to use the time to rest and enjoy the festivities responsibly.
Basant Panchami marks the arrival of spring and symbolises agricultural prosperity and good fortune. Traditionally celebrated with vibrant kite flying, music, and gatherings, the festival holds deep cultural significance in Punjab, particularly in Lahore.
Festival returns after years-long ban
However, Basant faced a complete ban in 2007 due to a surge in fatal incidents linked to sharp kite strings and celebratory gunfire. Motorcyclists and pedestrians were among the most affected, prompting authorities to halt the event indefinitely.
After an 18-year gap, the Punjab government lifted the ban in December, allowing Basant to resume under strict regulations. Under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, only thread-based kite strings are permitted.
In Lahore, the administration has banned the use of chemical-coated or sharp strings to prevent fatalities during the Basant festival.
