Basant Celebrations in Lahore. The Punjab government has officially announced an extension in Basant celebrations in Lahore, following an overwhelming public response and disciplined conduct observed across the city. The decision comes as the traditional festival made a historic return after a 25-year ban, drawing massive crowds and widespread enthusiasm.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz made the announcement on Saturday, praising the citizens of Lahore for celebrating Basant responsibly while strictly adhering to safety rules and regulations laid down by the authorities.
Basant Festivities Extended Until 5:00 AM
In her official statement, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed that Basant celebrations will now continue until 5:00 am tomorrow. She described the extension as a reward for the people of Lahore, who demonstrated maturity, unity, and discipline during the celebrations.
According to the chief minister, the decision was taken after reviewing reports from law enforcement agencies and district administrations, which highlighted peaceful celebrations and strong public cooperation throughout the city.
Public Enthusiasm Praised by the Chief Minister
Maryam Nawaz lauded the extraordinary enthusiasm and positive energy displayed by citizens during the revival of Basant. She said the colorful scenes across Lahore reflected the public’s desire to celebrate cultural traditions in a safe and responsible manner.
“The joy, unity, and discipline witnessed during Basant celebrations show that our people are fully capable of celebrating festivals while respecting the law,” she said, adding that this responsible behavior played a key role in extending the festivities.
Emphasis on Safety and Responsible Celebrations
While encouraging citizens to enjoy the extended celebrations, the chief minister strongly emphasized the importance of following safety standard operating procedures (SOPs). She urged people to remain cautious, especially during kite flying activities.
Maryam Nawaz advised residents to:
- Stay away from electric wires
- Ensure rooftops are secure and safe
- Avoid dangerous materials
- Strictly follow official safety guidelines
She stressed that safety should remain the top priority to prevent accidents and ensure that the festival remains joyful for everyone.
Role of Public Cooperation Highlighted
The chief minister credited public cooperation as a major factor behind the peaceful environment observed during Basant celebrations. According to her, citizens worked closely with authorities, which helped maintain order and prevent untoward incidents.
She appealed to residents to maintain the same level of discipline and responsibility during the extended hours, ensuring that celebrations continue smoothly without putting lives at risk.
Historic Return of Basant After 25 Years
The revival of Basant after more than two decades has been described as a historic moment for Lahore. The festival, once considered the cultural identity of the city, had remained banned due to safety concerns and tragic incidents in the past.
The Punjab government’s decision to allow Basant under strict regulations marks a significant shift in policy, focusing on balancing cultural traditions with public safety.
Strict Security and Safety Measures in Place
Punjab authorities have implemented strict safety measures across Lahore to manage the large crowds and extended celebrations. Law enforcement agencies, including police and district administration, remain actively deployed throughout the city.
Officials have confirmed that:
- Rooftop monitoring is ongoing
- Law enforcement personnel are patrolling sensitive areas
- Emergency services are on high alert
These measures aim to ensure public safety during the extended celebration hours.
Appeal to Keep Basant Safe and Memorable
Maryam Nawaz expressed hope that the return of Basant would remain safe, joyful, and memorable for all citizens. She encouraged people to celebrate in a way that reflects positivity, cultural pride, and social responsibility.
She reiterated that irresponsible behavior could jeopardize future celebrations, urging everyone to protect this cultural revival by acting wisely.
Public Reaction to the Extension
The announcement of extended Basant celebrations has been warmly welcomed by residents of Lahore. Many citizens expressed happiness over the decision, calling it a confidence-building step by the government.
Social media platforms were filled with colorful images, messages of celebration, and appreciation for the government’s decision to trust the public with extended festivities.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s decision to extend Basant celebrations in Lahore reflects confidence in public responsibility and effective law enforcement. With celebrations allowed until 5:00 am, citizens have been given an opportunity to enjoy a cultural tradition that holds deep historical significance for the city.
