Good news for Basant enthusiasts in Punjab

Lahore: Good news for Basant enthusiasts as the Punjab government has started considering the possibilities of organizing a safe and controlled Basant festival.

Following the instructions of the Punjab government, a consultative meeting was held in the Home Department, which was chaired by Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi. The meeting discussed in detail the possibilities of organizing a safe Basant in certain areas for specific days during the Jashn-e-Baharan and the proposed amendments to the law prohibiting kite flying.

The Punjab Home Secretary said that the protection of human lives is the top priority of the Punjab government; therefore, kite flying that poses a threat to human lives cannot be allowed in any case.

It was suggested in the meeting that permission for a safe Basant as a cultural activity can be given during the Jashn-e-Baharan; however, it will be mandatory to obtain an NOC from the Deputy Commissioner of the concerned district for this. The owner of the roof or premises for which permission is sought will have to give an affidavit regarding safety measures.

The proposals stated that the use of metal strings, tinder, or manjha strings would be strictly prohibited, while registration with the Deputy Commissioner would be mandatory for kite makers, sellers, and suppliers. Violation of the law would be punishable by cancellation of registration, imprisonment, and fines.

It was also decided in the meeting that heavy fines and long imprisonment would be imposed on those flying kites and selling them without permission.

The civil society representative said that the revival of the safe Basant festival would not only create employment opportunities but also promote tourism.

The meeting directed the Walled City Authority to survey to know the public opinion regarding safe Basant. LESCO also presented details of the damage caused by dangerous kite flying in the past.

According to the government spokesperson, Basant cannot be allowed to be held openly. However, consultations are underway on holding a safe Basant in a controlled environment.