Kite-Flying Association Plans to Celebrate Basant Again

The All Pakistan Kite-Flying Association (APKFA) expressed optimism that Basant will return in March following the festival’s safe and successful celebration in Lahore.

Patron-in-Chief Aqeel Malik, speaking at a press conference, said the revival of Basant not only restored Lahore’s lost cultural heritage but also generated over Rs20 billion in economic activity across the city.

Citizens aged 10 to 70 were seen flying kites from rooftops, highlighting widespread public enthusiasm.

Malik credited Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for supporting the event, saying government backing was crucial for the festival’s revival.

He added that Basant was not just a cultural celebration but also a major economic driver, benefiting businesses, transport services, and small traders.

Around 900,000 vehicles entered Lahore from surrounding cities during the festival, while nearly 200,000 people used public transport services, including the Orange Line Metro Train and Metro Bus, which demonstrated effective transport management.

Malik emphasized that strict adherence to SOPs played a key role in safety, noting that no injuries occurred from kite strings and protective rods on motorcycles successfully prevented accidents.

However, Malik criticized illegal profiteering, stating that bamboo, paper, and kite sellers had inflated prices.

Daily transport fares, previously Rs3,000, soared to Rs35,000 during the festival. The association has compiled a list of those charging excessive rates.

Looking ahead, Malik said the government plans to celebrate Basant across Punjab next year, with official pricing for kites and strings to curb exploitation.

He expressed hope that Basant 2027 would be even safer and better regulated.