New Rules for Motorcycles During Basant Festival. The Punjab government has announced new motorcycle safety rules ahead of the upcoming Basant festival in Lahore, aiming to prevent accidents and ensure public safety during the celebrations. The most important change directly affects motorcyclists. Safety rods will be mandatory on all motorcycles operating within the city during Basant.
The decision is part of the government’s “Mehfooz Basant” plan, which focuses on reducing injuries caused by kite strings and reckless riding.
Basant Festival Dates Confirmed in Lahore
The Basant festival will take place on February 6, 7, and 8, 2026, and celebrations will be allowed only within the limits of Lahore district.
The announcement was made by Maryam Khan, the Lahore Commissioner, while chairing a high-level meeting attended by:
- Kite flying associations
- Police officials
- District administration representatives
During the meeting, authorities finalized safety arrangements and enforcement measures for the three-day festival.
Safety Rods Made Mandatory for Motorcycles
Under the newly enforced rules, motorcycles without safety rods will not be allowed on city roads during Basant.
This measure has been introduced under the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which strengthens safety requirements during kite-flying events.
Why Safety Rods Are Required
Safety rods help protect riders and pedestrians from dangerous kite strings, especially metal-coated strings that have caused serious injuries and fatalities in past years.
One Million Safety Rods to Be Installed Across Lahore
To help motorcyclists comply with the new rule, authorities have planned a large-scale installation drive.
- Around 1 million safety rods will be installed
- 100 road safety camps will be set up across Lahore
- Each camp can fit 50,000 to 60,000 motorcycles per day
These camps will operate throughout the festival period to ensure maximum coverage.
Motorcycles Without Safety Rods Face Road Ban
Officials confirmed that motorcyclists without safety rods will be stopped from entering city roads during the festival days. Strict enforcement will be carried out by traffic police and district authorities.
Motorcyclists are strongly advised to install safety rods before February 6 to avoid fines, delays, or vehicle restrictions.
Kite Flying Remains Banned Until February 6
Authorities clarified that kite flying will remain completely banned until February 6, the official start date of Basant.
Key Kite Flying Rules
- Kite flying allowed only during February 6–8
- Manufacturing of kites and related material allowed only within Lahore district
- Kite sales will begin on February 1 and continue until February 8
Any activity outside these dates or locations will be treated as a violation.
Strict Action Against Violations
The Lahore Commissioner warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating Basant rules.
Officials revealed that:
- 204 cases have already been registered against illegal kite flying
- Enforcement teams are actively monitoring manufacturing units and sales points
- Police patrols will increase during the festival days
Government’s Focus on ‘Mehfooz Basant’
The Punjab government emphasized that Basant will only be allowed under controlled and safe conditions. The focus is on:
- Preventing accidents caused by kite strings
- Ensuring road safety for motorcyclists
- Reducing emergency incidents
- Allowing citizens to enjoy Basant responsibly
Officials urged the public to cooperate and follow all safety instructions.
What Motorcyclists Should Do Before Basant
Motorcyclists in Lahore should take the following steps:
- Install approved safety rods before February 6
- Avoid riding during peak kite-flying hours if possible
- Follow traffic rules strictly
- Report illegal kite flying to authorities
Failure to comply may result in fines or restricted movement.
Conclusion
The announcement of mandatory safety rods for motorcycles marks a significant step by the Punjab government to ensure a safer Basant celebration in Lahore. With large-scale safety rod installation camps, restricted kite flying dates, and strict enforcement, authorities aim to balance tradition with public safety.
Residents and visitors are advised to follow the rules, prepare in advance, and support the Mehfooz Basant initiative to enjoy the festival without risk.
