Lahore: Ahead of the Basant festival, authorities in Lahore have taken major steps to ensure public safety and prevent accidents. The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has declared 364 buildings as unsafe following a comprehensive survey of dangerous and dilapidated structures. Of these, 183 were deemed irreparable and 181 repairable. While 92 extremely unsafe buildings have been evacuated, many others remain occupied, prompting officials to ban access to unsafe rooftops during Basant. Warning notices and awareness banners have been installed to inform residents, and the district administration has been asked to seal hazardous areas.
In addition, Lahore Police have rolled out a comprehensive Basant safety plan. Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Bilal Siddique Kamyana announced that from February 1, fines will be imposed on motorcyclists riding without safety rods, with one million bikes to be fitted free of charge. Kite flying will only be permitted on February 6, 7, and 8, with strict legal action against violators, including parents of children involved in illegal kite flying. Round-the-clock monitoring will be conducted via CCTV cameras, drones, and special control rooms, while a free ride service will be provided for motorcyclists during the festival.
In a related development, the Lahore High Court (LHC) sought reports from authorities detailing the measures taken to ensure safety during Basant, emphasizing the need for coordination between departments. Awareness campaigns are also being run through print and electronic media to educate the public about permitted areas for celebrations.
Authorities have mobilized teams from health, police, and civil departments, while traffic and public safety measures are being enforced across the city to prevent mishaps during the festival.
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