Basant’s Return to Lahore Expected to Generate Over Rs. 20 Billion

The return of Basant to Lahore after an 18-year ban is expected to generate more than Rs. 20 billion in economic activity, according to Syed Zulfiqar Hussain, a former organizer of the Lahore Basant Festival.

Speaking at a student event in Lahore, Hussain said the three-day Basant Festival 2026 will provide a major boost to tourism, hospitality, transport, food, trade, and allied industries, while also reviving a key cultural tradition of the city.

He said the last Basant was held in 2007 and attracted around five million participants. This year, nearly eight million people are expected to take part in the celebrations, including overseas Pakistanis.

Hussain credited Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for allowing the festival’s return, calling it a positive step toward restoring Lahore’s cultural identity and improving Pakistan’s soft image internationally.

According to Hussain, Basant has evolved into a full-fledged industry that provides livelihoods to thousands of people involved in kite making, thread production, hospitality, transport and food services.

He said the government has framed new rules under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 to address safety concerns that led to the original ban. Kite flying will be permitted only on February 6, 7 and 8, 2026.

Under the new regulations, approved kite strings and materials will be allowed, and sales of kites and strings will begin from February 1. All materials must be finished and destroyed after February 8, with strict enforcement planned for violations. Hussain said safety guidelines include the use of approved gudda tawa, half tawa and door pinna with limited strands, stressing that parents must guide children to ensure safe participation.

He noted that while around 5.6 million motorcycles are registered in Lahore, nearly 0.7 million remain unregistered, highlighting the need for effective traffic and safety management during the festival.

The festival was banned in 2007 after multiple fatalities caused by sharp metallic strings and rooftop falls. Authorities say the new framework aims to allow celebration while minimizing risks through time limits and material controls.

Tourism industry stakeholders have welcomed the decision, expecting a surge in domestic and international visitors. Hotels, restaurants and transport operators are preparing for increased demand, while local kite manufacturers have already ramped up production.

Officials said law enforcement agencies are finalizing security and safety plans to manage large crowds and ensure compliance with the new rules.

Cultural experts say the revival of Basant marks an important moment for Lahore, restoring a symbol of color, joy and community bonding, while positioning the event as a regulated and family-friendly celebration.