LAHORE: Ahead of the Basant festival, the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) has identified 346 buildings in the Walled City as unsafe following a detailed survey of dilapidated and hazardous structures. The report was submitted to the Lahore High Court in response to petitions challenging Basant celebrations.
Out of the total, 183 buildings are classified as irreparable, while 163 are deemed repairable. So far, 92 buildings considered extremely dangerous have been evacuated. Despite the risk, 254 buildings remain occupied, including 103 irreparable and 151 repairable structures. Among the evacuated buildings, 80 are suitable for demolition and 12 can be repaired.
The WCLA emphasized that rooftops of unsafe buildings are not suitable for Basant activities, such as kite flying. To minimize risks, warning notices and awareness banners are being installed throughout the Walled City. Authorities have also requested the district administration to seal hazardous rooftops and portions of buildings.
The report recommends deploying police personnel during the festival to ensure safety and maintain order. The measures aim to prevent accidents and protect residents while allowing Basant festivities to proceed with caution.
