Punjab imposes Section 144 around airports, PAF bases for 30 days

The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 around all commercial airports and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases across the province for 30 days, banning activities considered hazardous to flight operations and aviation assets.

According to a notification issued by the provincial Home Department on May 19, the restrictions were introduced following reports from “reliable sources” indicating that certain activities near airports and airbases could pose serious risks to aircraft safety.

The banned activities include pigeon homing, the use of laser lights by hotels, shopping malls and shops, and the disposal or throwing of meat (sadqa) in open areas and on rooftops.

The notification stated that the measures were taken under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to ensure public safety, protect lives and property, and maintain public order.

Under the directive issued by the Home Department secretary under Section 144(6), the restrictions will apply within a 13-kilometre radius of all PAF bases and commercial airports in Punjab with immediate effect.