Maryam Nawaz extends Lahore Basant celebrations until 5am Monday

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced that Basant celebrations in Lahore would continue until 5am Monday, citing strong public participation and what she described as improved compliance with safety measures. She urged residents to remain cautious, avoid electrical hazards and follow official guidelines while celebrating.

The extension came on the third day of the kite-flying festival, which resumed after the provincial government lifted a long-standing ban. Authorities maintained restrictions to prevent dangerous practices, including a ban on prohibited kite strings and limits on items that could inflame religious or political sensitivities.

Security arrangements were tightened across Lahore, with checkpoints and large police deployments in multiple zones. Officials said monitoring was in place at entry points to block illegal kite-flying materials and confiscate prohibited items.

The celebrations continued amid heightened safety concerns, with reports of incidents linked to kite flying and intensified calls from authorities for responsible festivities.