Preparations for Basant are gaining momentum in Lahore, as the District Education Authority (DEA) considers a major step to facilitate organized celebrations. Authorities have decided to auction rooftops of selected government schools for Basant-related programs, aiming to ensure safety and proper management during the festival.
At the same time, the city administration is also considering four days of holidays in early February, potentially offering citizens a long weekend during Basant.
School Rooftops to Be Auctioned for Basant Events
According to officials, the decision involves auctioning rooftops of several government schools located in the Walled City and surrounding areas.
The auction process will begin after approval from the Secretary Schools Education, and will be conducted in coordination with:
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District Administration
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Walled City Authority
The move is intended to allow controlled and monitored Basant activities instead of unregulated rooftop gatherings.
List of Schools Included in the Decision
The following schools have reportedly been selected for rooftop auctioning:
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Government Victoria Girls High School
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Government High School Delhi Gate
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Government Boys & Girls High School Sheranwala Gate
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Government School Mochi Gate
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Government School Kabli Mal
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Government Girls High School Rang Mahal
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Government Krishan High School Rang Mahal
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Government Model High School Takiya Sadhwan
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Government School Sheesha Moti Bazaar
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Government High School CDGL Bhati Gate
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Asifa Model School Sheranwala Gate
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Government High School Chuna Mandi
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Government High School Gowalmandi
Authorities say the selected locations are suitable due to their central positioning and accessibility.
Four-Day Holidays Under Consideration
In a related development, the Lahore administration is also reviewing a proposal to declare four holidays during the first week of February.
Officials believe extended holidays could:
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Reduce traffic congestion
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Help manage crowd movement
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Allow safer and more organized celebrations
If approved, citizens could enjoy a long weekend during the Basant festivities.
Focus on Safety and Crowd Management
Administration officials stressed that the primary goal of these measures is to ensure public safety, minimize risks, and prevent chaos during Basant.
By limiting celebrations to approved and supervised locations, authorities aim to curb unsafe practices while preserving the cultural spirit of the festival.
Why This Decision Matters
Basant has long been a sensitive topic in Lahore due to safety concerns. Analysts believe that a structured approach like rooftop auctions and planned holidays could:
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Improve regulation
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Boost cultural tourism
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Reduce illegal rooftop access
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Help authorities maintain order
The coming weeks will determine how effectively these plans are implemented.
