Authorities in Lahore have finalized a detailed emergency plan to ensure public safety during the upcoming Basant festival. Extra resources have been deployed across the city as celebrations gain momentum.
Provincial officials said the emergency plan focuses on quick response and risk reduction. The aim is to protect lives and property during large public gatherings. Special attention has been given to crowded and sensitive areas.
Khawaja Salman Rafiq briefed the media on the preparations. He said more than 1,200 Rescue 1122 personnel will remain on duty throughout the festival days. A total of 56 ambulances will be stationed at important locations across Lahore.
He added that 24 fire vehicles and 300 rescue motorbikes will also be deployed. These units will help manage emergencies in congested streets and high-traffic zones. Rescue motorbikes will operate in narrow lanes where ambulances cannot enter quickly.
According to officials, Rescue 1122 will remain on high alert during Basant. Operations will be coordinated through 23 rescue stations across the city. Each station will cover designated key points to ensure faster response times.
Khawaja Salman Rafiq said the emergency plan has been designed after careful assessment. It aims to deal with medical emergencies, fire incidents, and other risks. He expressed hope that the festival would pass peacefully without any major incident.
Meanwhile, Basant preparations are in full swing across Lahore. Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari earlier shared details of the festival’s scale. She said kite sales in Lahore reached Rs340 million within just two days.
Speaking outside the Punjab Assembly, she said the city has seen a surge in visitors. Transport facilities are being provided in all major areas. Authorities want to ensure smooth movement during festival days.
She added that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is personally monitoring safety arrangements. Public awareness about SOPs is being shared regularly. Citizens have been urged to follow safety rules strictly.
Bokhari said surveys were conducted in the Walled City. Several unsafe buildings were sealed to avoid accidents. These steps were taken to reduce risks during kite flying.
Responding to price complaints, she said supplies were allowed from four more districts. This move aims to balance demand and control prices.
Officials believe the combined safety measures and emergency plan will help ensure a safe Basant. Citizens have been urged to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with authorities.
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