The Punjab government will offer free public transportation in Lahore from February 6-8 as part of celebrations surrounding the return of the Basant festival, officials announced Saturday.
Basant Returns with Free Transit for Lahore Residents
The initiative, directed by CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif and implemented by the Punjab Masstransit Authority (PMA), aims to facilitate safe and smooth travel for citizens during the festival. Approximately 600,000 passengers are expected to utilize the free services daily.
Commuters will be able to ride free of charge on the Metro Bus Service, the Orange Line Metro Train, Speedo buses, and electric buses throughout the city. The Orange Line Metro Train alone is expected to serve around 270,000 passengers each day, traveling between Dera Gujran and Ali Town.
A total of 64 metro buses will operate between Shahdara and Gajjumata, accommodating approximately 150,000 passengers per day. Additionally, 188 buses will service 21 feeder routes, and 40 electric buses will operate on two routes under the PMA.
The move comes after the Punjab government granted special permission for Basant celebrations, limited to Lahore, under the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025. This ordinance places strict regulations on all aspects of the festival, a response to past safety concerns that led to a ban in 2007.
Provincial Minister for Transport and Mass Transit Bilal Akbar Khan expressed his satisfaction with the arrangements, stating, “On Basant, citizens will be able to avail themselves of free travel facilities without any worry.”
The Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 prohibits the use of dangerous materials like nylon and glass-coated strings, mandating the use of traceable cotton string. Violations are punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of Rs2 million.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the free transport services be available?
Free public transport will be available from February 6-8.
Which transport services are included in the initiative?
The Metro Bus Service, the Orange Line Metro Train, Speedo buses, and electric buses will all offer free rides.
Where will Basant celebrations be permitted?
Basant celebrations are restricted to the district limits of Lahore.
As Lahore prepares to welcome Basant after years of restrictions, how might the success of these safety measures and public transport initiatives influence future decisions regarding the festival’s scope and duration?
