Residents of Lahore may be in for an extended long weekend in the first week of February, as authorities are considering granting up to four consecutive holidays in connection with Basant celebrations.
According to sources, a proposal to declare an additional public holiday on Friday is currently under consideration. If approved, citizens would be able to enjoy a four-day break, combining an existing public holiday with regular weekend offs.
Four-day break
February 5 is already an official public holiday on account of Kashmir Day. This is followed by Saturday and Sunday as regular weekly holidays, and the proposed Friday holiday would complete the four-day stretch.
Officials say the main objective of the additional holiday is to make Basant celebrations safer and more enjoyable for residents. Fewer working days are also expected to reduce traffic congestion and limit unnecessary motorcycle movement across the city.
Basant festivities
Authorities have already announced that Basant celebrations in Lahore will be held on February 6, 7, and 8. The potential long weekend is expected to give citizens greater convenience and flexibility to take part in the festivities without weekday constraints.
While the proposal is still under review, officials indicate that a final decision will be made soon.
If approved, Lahorites will be able to celebrate Basant with a rare four-day break, combining cultural festivities with reduced traffic and improved public safety.
