QUETTA:
Quetta, after Lahore, is set to celebrate the festival of Basant, with the skies of the provincial capital to be adorned with vibrant kites from February 13 to 15 in a three-day fair, generating much excitement.
Preparations across the city are in full swing. Markets are abuzz with colourful kites, strong strings, yellow clothing, and other Basant essentials. Shopping activity is visible across Gardesingh Road, Prince Road, Alamdar Road, Kasi Road, Sirki Road, Jan Muhammad Road, Sabzal Road, Nawa Kali, Brohi Road, Jail Road, Liaquat Bazaar, and other areas, where people are enjoying the new kite designs.
PHOTO: EXPRESS
So far, no official statement has been given by the government regarding the celebration or cancellation of the festival.
The skies are expected to soon fill with flying kites, while local cultural programs, music, and traditional events are also being organised in various parts of the city.
Read: Basant concludes with heavy turnout, tight security
Residents believe the festival will provide a much-needed recreational outlet in Quetta. One citizen, Misbah Advocate, said: “In a city like Quetta, where daily life presents many challenges, a festival like Basant not only brings joy but also promotes social harmony and a positive image. If held at a government level, it could be even more engaging. Following Lahore, this event also sends a positive message for tourism.”
PHOTO: EXPRESS
According to organisers, the celebrations will feature kite flying, performances by local artists, stalls serving traditional food, and family-friendly entertainment. The fair may mark the beginning of a new cultural chapter in Quetta, offering residents a temporary escape from daily struggles and spreading happiness.
It is worth noting that Quetta becomes the second major city to revive the Basant festival after Lahore. Citizens have been urged to celebrate the event peacefully and safely, following all precautionary measures to ensure the joyous occasion is free from untoward incidents.
Read more: City receives 900k vehicles during Basant
Lahore marked the conclusion of the Basant this Sunday, with widespread celebrations across the city, as skies filled with colourful kites and residents gathered on rooftops, streets and public spaces to welcome spring in a display of tradition, endurance and cautious celebration under tight security.
Officials recorded the entry of nearly 900,000 vehicles into Lahore over three days. Under government arrangements, about 1.4 million passengers availed themselves of free public transport, including metro services, feeder buses and electric buses.
On the final day, 419 buses and 6,000 subsidised online rickshaw rides remained operational.
