Lahore Unveils Strict Code of Conduct for Basant Festival to Ensure Public Safety
The Lahore deputy commissioner has officially issued a comprehensive code of conduct for the upcoming three-day Basant festival, scheduled from February 6 to 8. This move aims to enforce public safety and ensure strict compliance with regulations recently notified by the Punjab government. The festival marks a significant return, as the Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz-led administration lifted a 25-year ban on kite flying in the province last month, a prohibition originally imposed in 2001 due to numerous fatalities caused by hazardous kite strings.
Key Prohibitions and Safety Measures
The code of conduct will be strictly enforced across all rooftops and premises designated for kite flying during the Basant celebrations. Authorities have outlined several critical prohibitions to mitigate risks:
- Hazardous Kite Strings: The use, possession, sale, or display of metallic, chemical, glass-coated, nylon, or any other dangerous kite string is strictly prohibited. This measure directly addresses the primary cause of past injuries and deaths.
- Noise Pollution: Playing loud music, operating DJs or sound systems, or any activity causing noise pollution is banned under Sections 3, 4, and 6 of the Punjab Sound Systems (Regulation) Act, 2015.
- Aerial Firing: The show or use of weapons, including aerial firing, is strictly prohibited and will be prosecuted under Section 337-H of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) 1860.
- Public Nuisance: Acts causing nuisance, harassment, obscenity, indecent behavior, or disturbance to neighbors or the public are not allowed, as per Sections 290, 292-A, and 509 of the PPC 1860.
Mandatory Safety Protocols and Responsibilities
To further enhance safety, the code includes specific requirements and responsibilities:
- Kite Sales: The sale and purchase of kites and related accessories are permitted only from February 1 to 8, and must be conducted through vendors registered with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Lahore. Purchases from unauthorized sources will lead to legal action.
- Rooftop Safety: The use of unsafe rooftops is prohibited, and gatherings on dangerous or unsecured rooftops must be avoided. Installation of grills or safety walls is mandatory to prevent accidents.
- Motorcycle Safety: Installation of safety rods on all motorcycles in Lahore is compulsory to protect riders from kite strings. The Punjab government has committed to providing these rods free of cost to one million bikers.
- Child Safety: Parents and premises owners are held responsible for the safety of children during the festival.
Adequate safety arrangements must be in place to prevent falls from rooftops, electric hazards, overcrowding, or any other risks to life and property. Authorized officers from the district administration, police, or allied departments may inspect premises at any time, as per Regulation 20, Chapter IV of the Kite Flying Regulations 2025. Premises owners or managers will be personally liable for any injuries, losses, incidents, or violations of laws and regulations.
Government Preparations and Zoning Plans
In preparation for the festival, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz recently chaired a review meeting, emphasizing that all concerned departments are working actively to ensure a safe event. A detailed traffic plan has been devised, with the provincial capital divided into different zones. Notably, bikes will not be allowed to enter the Red Zone without security wire, further underscoring the focus on safety.
The code of conduct urges all participants to abide by the provisions of the Kite Flying Act, 2025, and related rules, ensuring that all activities are conducted in accordance with applicable laws, notifications, and instructions from the Punjab government and Lahore district administration.
