Lahore rolls out Basant-themed transport and safety teams ahead of festival

LAHORE: Public departments in Punjab have stepped up Basant 2026 preparations as the Lahore administration introduced Basant-themed artwork on public transport and announced quick response teams (QRTs) to manage safety and emergency readiness during the festival period.

Officials said Speedo and green electric buses have been decorated with cultural visuals and Punjab-inspired colours. The provincial government has also reiterated plans for free travel in Lahore on the metro bus, Orange Line, Speedo and electric bus services during the three-day celebrations.

Separately, the Lahore deputy commissioner has formed QRTs in every tehsil, led by the respective assistant commissioners and supported by Rescue 1122, police Special Branch, health, education and other civic departments. The teams have been tasked with inspecting unsafe rooftops and dilapidated buildings, issuing notices where needed and securing assurances from property owners to prevent risky activities.

Authorities directed assistant commissioners to certify by February 2 that kite-flying will not take place on structurally unsafe rooftops. They also said rooftops and premises intended for kite-flying must be registered through the Basant Portal, with compliance to prescribed safety measures and the code of conduct.

The QRTs were assigned additional duties including ensuring uninterrupted power supply, covering manholes and potholes, coordinating emergency services, setting up health camps, running awareness efforts in markets and residential areas, and submitting daily reports to the district control room during the Basant period.