LAHORE (MNN); Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Sunday announced a long weekend across the province by declaring a Basant holiday on February 6.
In a post on X, the chief minister said the long break would include Kashmir Day on February 5, the provincial Basant holiday on February 6, followed by Saturday and Sunday. She expressed hope that people across Punjab would use the time to rest, recharge and enjoy the extended weekend.
The kite-flying festival Basant was banned in Punjab in 2007 after a rise in fatalities and serious injuries caused by sharp kite strings, particularly affecting motorcyclists and pillion riders, as well as incidents of celebratory gunfire.
After an 18-year ban, the Punjab government has now decided to revive the historic festival under strict regulations. As part of this decision, a three-day Basant festival is set to begin in Lahore from February 6.
