Punjab Basant festival expansion and regulation

The Punjab government has announced plans to expand the Basant festival across the province for 2027, moving beyond its traditional focus on Lahore. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has scheduled a three-day celebration in Lahore from March 12 to 14, 2027.

To manage the festivities, the provincial government is developing new legislation and strict safety regulations. These include requirements for structurally sound rooftops with boundary walls at least 3.5 feet high, mandatory supervision of children, and prohibitions against overcrowding or leaning over parapets. Organizers are also restricted from using loud music to prevent disturbing neighbors. Under the proposed framework, property owners and event hosts will be held legally responsible for accidents or rule violations on their premises.

As preparations progress, the Lahore district administration has begun organizing the event to meet international standards, including city-wide decorations. Starting September 5, the administration will begin registering kite manufacturers and producers through a dedicated portal. Manufacturers must obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) before production begins. Authorities have announced a “zero-tolerance policy” regarding prohibited materials such as chemical-coated string and metallic wire, mandating the use of only approved kite sizes and cotton string.