LAHORE: The Punjab Horticulture Authority (PHA) has banned all temporary amusement rides in public parks across the province during Eid-ul-Azha 2026.
According to a PHA spokesperson, district horticulture agencies will not allow the installation or operation of temporary mechanical rides, swings, or similar setups in parks under their control. The decision has been taken on the instructions of the provincial home department and will apply across Punjab.
However, permanently installed rides at amusement and theme parks will be allowed to operate only if owners provide a valid fitness certificate. The certificate will confirm that the rides have passed technical inspections and meet safety standards.
“All district agencies have been directed to strictly enforce the ban on temporary rides and ensure only certified permanent rides remain operational during Eid holidays,” the spokesperson said.
The PHA said the move aims to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure public safety during the festive season. The decision follows several incidents in recent years involving amusement rides in parks.
In February 2024, a minor girl died after being hit by a swing at Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park in Lahore. In April 2024, three children were injured when a swing collapsed at Racecourse Park during Eid holidays. Earlier, in July 2017, four people were injured in a similar incident at Joy Land Park in Fortress Stadium.
ALSO READ
Punjab plans ‘Mega Film City’ to revive cinema, create millions of jobs
On the horticulture side, the PHA has directed newly formed agencies to speed up work on city beautification and increase green cover. Authorities are planting seasonal flowers and carrying out tree plantation drives in different districts.
District agencies have also been told to develop biodiversity corridors. These green areas will help protect the environment, support wildlife, and improve natural habitats.
Meanwhile, the PHA plans to set up commercial nurseries across the province to increase revenue. The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Additional Director General Mirza Waleed Baig.
ALSO READ
Govt reduces passport wait time, introduces cashless system
Officials reviewed the Lahore model, where two nurseries have already been set up in Gulberg and Racecourse Park. These nurseries provide indoor and outdoor plants, shrubs, and flowers at affordable rates and have attracted good public interest.
The model will now be expanded to other districts to support plantation efforts and generate income.
CLEANLINESS OPERATION: The Suthra Punjab Agency Lahore has launched a special cleanliness drive in Wahga Town. More than 1,464 sanitation workers and 321 vehicles have been deployed.
Over 100 loader rickshaws have also been assigned to rural union councils for door-to-door waste collection and improved cleanliness.
