The Punjab government has announced a Punjab Basant free transport initiative to facilitate citizens during the three-day Basant festival in Lahore, scheduled from February 6 to February 8. The decision aims to ensure safe, smooth, and affordable mobility for residents and visitors as the provincial capital prepares for tightly regulated celebrations.
The announcement was made following directives from Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, with the Punjab Masstransit Authority (PMA) finalising operational arrangements. Authorities said the move reflects the government’s focus on public convenience and traffic management during large-scale public events.
Under the plan, all major public transport services operating within Lahore will remain free of charge throughout the festival days.
Free transport services during Basant 2026
According to the Punjab Masstransit Authority, commuters will be able to travel without paying fares on the Metro Bus Service, Orange Line Metro Train, Speedo buses, and electric buses across Lahore. The Orange Line Metro Train will operate free of cost along its full route from Dera Gujran to Ali Town, benefiting an estimated 270,000 daily passengers.
Similarly, 64 Metro Bus vehicles will run between Shahdara and Gajjumata, accommodating around 150,000 passengers each day. On feeder routes, 188 buses will operate across 21 different corridors to ensure connectivity in residential and commercial areas.
In addition, 40 electric buses managed by the Punjab Mass Transit Authority will provide free services on two routes within the city. Officials estimate that nearly 600,000 passengers per day are expected to benefit from the free transport facility during Basant.
Provincial Minister for Transport and Mass Transit Bilal Akbar Khan welcomed the arrangements, stating that citizens would be able to celebrate Basant without worrying about travel costs or accessibility.
Lahore Basant revival under strict safety framework
This year’s Basant celebrations mark a cautious revival of a festival that remained banned for years due to serious safety concerns. The Punjab government has allowed Basant only within Lahore’s district limits and only for the specified three days, under strict legal and administrative controls.
The permission follows the enforcement of the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, which introduced comprehensive regulations to prevent accidents. Authorities have banned glass-coated, metallic, plastic, and chemical strings, allowing only approved cotton string with traceable QR codes. Kite sizes, rooftop access, and sound systems are also strictly regulated.
Officials have reiterated that violations of the ordinance could result in heavy fines and prison terms, stressing zero tolerance for unsafe practices. The government says the controlled revival, combined with free public transport, is designed to balance cultural celebration with public safety and order.
