The Punjab government has announced the provision of free public transport for citizens and tourists in Lahore during the Basant Festival. According to officials, the initiative aims to offer safe, convenient, and cost-free travel facilities during the festival while also reducing traffic congestion across the city.
The administration has advised citizens to avoid using motorcycles and instead rely on public transport, as kite strings during Basant pose a higher risk of accidents for motorcyclists. Officials stated that the decision has been taken primarily to ensure public safety during the celebrations.
According to the administration, the Orange Line Metro Train will operate free of charge throughout the three days of Basant, providing daily travel facilities to approximately 250,000 passengers. Similarly, the Metro Bus Service operating from Shahdara to Gajjumata will also remain free. In addition, Speedo and electric buses will operate on 24 different routes across the city, including more than 200 feeder buses, to ensure smooth connectivity to various areas.
For the first time, the Punjab government has also partnered with private ride-hailing companies, under which citizens will be offered 60,000 free cab rides and 6,000 free rickshaw rides. According to the Punjab Mass Transit Authority, 24 major routes have been designated during the Basant Festival to connect key areas of the city with Liberty Chowk and other event locations, ensuring easy access for both residents and visitors.
