Over Rs20 Billion Business Generated During Basant Festival, Claims All Pakistan Kite Flying Association

Lahore: The All Pakistan Kite Flying Association has claimed that the Basant festival generated business worth more than Rs20 billion in Punjab, providing a significant boost to the provincial economy.

Addressing a press conference after the successful conclusion of Basant, association representatives said that the kite and string business alone exceeded Rs3 billion, while bamboo sellers, paper vendors, laborers, craftsmen, and other related sectors also benefited from the three-day festival.

The association thanked Punjab Chief Minister for the revival of Basant, stating that the festival not only promoted cultural activities but was completed peacefully, with no major incident reported in Lahore.

However, the association expressed deep sorrow over a tragic incident in Islamabad, which led to the cancellation of several Basant-related events.

According to the association, standard operating procedures (SOPs) were developed in coordination with the government, and both sides remained on the same page regarding kites and string regulations. The government also installed more than one million safety rods across the province to prevent accidents.

The representatives acknowledged instances of price hikes during the festival, citing an example where a kite reel priced at Rs4,000 was sold for as much as Rs40,000. They emphasized that the association opposes profiteering and supported government action against those involved in illegal price manipulation.

They further stated that individuals using prohibited metal reels would not be above the law and would face strict action.

The association said kite and string production was permitted in four districts of Punjab, but production was affected due to prolonged fog after approval was granted on December 30. The government plans to further regulate the production process in coming years.

Looking ahead, the association announced that Basant will be celebrated across Punjab next year, adding that the Chief Minister has assured the festival will continue. “Lahore was immersed in the colors of Basant, kites were flying on every rooftop, and the district administration provided full support,” the representatives said.

The association concluded by expressing its desire to hold Basant multiple times a year, calling it an important festival for culture, employment, and economic growth.