The Punjab Home Department informed the Lahore High Court on Wednesday that at least 17 people lost their lives during the three-day Basant festival held in Lahore from February 6 to 8.
A detailed report submitted to the court stated that the deaths occurred due to electrocution and falls from rooftops and trees during the celebrations.
The court was hearing petitions seeking information on damages and government expenditures related to the festival.
During proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the report did not disclose the number of people who died after being injured by kite strings. He also contended that data regarding those injured during the festival had not been provided.
“Basant has become a life-threatening danger instead of a festival,” the petitioner argued, adding that dozens of children were injured after falling from rooftops.
The petition further requested:
The court subsequently issued notices to the authorities seeking financial details related to Basant’s arrangements.
Earlier, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction with the security and administrative arrangements during the festival, appreciating citizens’ cooperation in maintaining order.
She emphasized that kite-flying restrictions would remain in place after the festival and directed officials to strictly enforce safety protocols.
The three-day Basant Festival 2026 was officially celebrated after 25 years under strict SOPs, following the provincial government’s announcement under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act 2025.