Punjab govt bans outdoor drone flights across province for a month

The Punjab Home Department has imposed a 30-day ban on flying drones in open spaces across the province under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, citing security concerns.

The department has issued a notification announcing the ban.

According to the notification, limited use of small drones will be allowed to cover events inside halls and marquees. However, organisers will be responsible for ensuring the safe use of drones at indoor events.

Intelligence and law enforcement agencies have been exempted from the ban.

The Home Department has also formed district-level Safe Drone Usage Committees to grant written permission for the safe use of drones. The committees will authorise drone use for agricultural, irrigation and research purposes. Such use will be exempt from the ban if prior written permission is obtained from the relevant committee.

The ban was imposed by the Punjab home secretary under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898.

According to the department, public safety, the maintenance of law and order, and the protection of property are the Punjab government’s top priorities. Provincial authorities and police have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the orders.