Plans for Basant Bahar moved forward at a meeting held in the Rawalpindi Development Authority conference room where officials agreed that only families will be allowed entry and dedicated passes will be issued to manage attendance and safety.
The venue for the festival remains under consideration, with Ring Road and Liaquat Bagh among the options discussed. Authorities said a final decision on the location will be announced soon as arrangements are finalized.
The meeting, held on the directions of Director General Kinza Murtaza and chaired by Additional Director General Muhammad Anwar Baran, emphasized strict safety checks. Mr. Baran said kite strings will be thoroughly inspected before events begin to prevent untoward incidents and ensure safe kite flying throughout the Basant Bahar festivities.
To further strengthen safety measures, the Home Department has launched a formal registration process for kite and string manufacturers, sellers, and kite flying associations. Officials said registration will make it easier to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards ahead of the festival.
Basant Bahar is an ancient Punjabi celebration that welcomes spring with mustard fields in bloom, colorful kites, fairs and competitions. RDA representatives stressed that reviving these traditions in a regulated manner is a priority so that cultural activities do not compromise public safety or law and order.
Participants at the meeting included Chief Planner Muhammad Tahir Meo, Deputy Director Public Relations Hafiz Muhammad Irfan, Assistant Director Public Relations Abdul Rehman, representatives from PTV and the National College of Arts, Shehbaz Ahmed, Shafiq Ullah and other relevant officials who will coordinate on logistics and public communication for the Basant Bahar event.
RDA said it remains committed to organising Basant Bahar as a family-oriented, safe and well-managed festival that honours local culture while protecting residents and visitors.
