The Punjab Home Department on Wednesday informed the Lahore High Court (LHC) that 17 people died during the three-day Basant festival in Lahore from February 6 to 8.

A Home Department official submitted a report to the court detailing the loss of life during the celebrations. According to the report, the victims died from electrocution and falls from rooftops and trees.

The court was hearing petitions seeking information on damages and expenditures incurred during the festival.

During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the report did not include the number of people injured by kite strings. He also said no data was provided on those who were injured during the festival.

“Basant has become a life-threatening event instead of a festival,” the petitioner said. “Dozens of children were injured after falling from roofs.”

The petition requested the court to direct criminal and departmental action against officials over alleged negligence. It also asked for the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the losses during Basant celebrations.

 

The court issued notices to authorities seeking details of government expenditures related to the festival.

 

Earlier, Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz said she was satisfied with the arrangements and security measures during Basant, noting the cooperation of citizens in maintaining order.

She added that restrictions on kite flying would remain in place after the festival and instructed officials to enforce safety protocols.

 

Basant was held officially in Lahore for three days under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act 2025.