The issue of Dangerous Walled City Buildings has come under official scrutiny after the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) submitted a detailed safety report to the Lahore High Court (LHC) ahead of the upcoming Basant celebrations in the provincial capital.
The report was presented during a hearing on Wednesday in response to a petition filed by the Judicial Activism Panel, which raised serious concerns over public safety during kite-flying activities scheduled from February 6 to 8. The petition highlighted the risks posed by dilapidated buildings and unsafe rooftops in Lahore’s historic walled city.
According to the WCLA survey, a total of 346 buildings within its jurisdiction have been declared dangerous. Out of these, 183 structures are beyond repair, while 163 can still be repaired with proper intervention. Despite the risks, a large number of these buildings remain occupied.
The authority informed the court that 92 extremely unsafe buildings have been vacated so far. However, 254 dangerous buildings are still being used by residents. Among the occupied structures, 103 have been classified as beyond repair, while 151 are considered repairable.
Safety Measures and Restrictions for Basant 2026 in Lahore
The WCLA report clearly stated that rooftops of dangerous buildings are unsafe for Basant-related activities, including kite flying. As a precautionary step, measures are being taken to strictly ban the use of rooftops located on structurally weak buildings during the festival.
To raise public awareness, warning banners have been displayed on hazardous buildings across the walled city. The authority has also requested the district administration to seal dangerous rooftops and specific portions of unsafe buildings to prevent accidents during the festivities.
In addition, the WCLA recommended the deployment of police personnel and Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) teams during the three-day event to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Court Directions and Official Assurances
Justice Malik Awais Khalid directed all relevant departments to submit detailed responses on the steps taken regarding Basant celebrations, including similar petitions challenging the event’s permission.
During the hearing, the Director General of Public Relations (DGPR) informed the court that a public awareness campaign is already underway through print and electronic media to promote safe celebrations. The honorable judge also instructed authorities to maintain close coordination with the Lahore deputy commissioner.
The deputy commissioner assured the court that the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has made necessary arrangements to avoid electrical hazards. Meanwhile, the SSP Operations confirmed that kite flying before Basant is prohibited and that over 100 cases have already been registered for violations.
The court adjourned further proceedings until February 2, seeking updates on safety enforcement and inter-departmental coordination.