LAHORE: The Punjab government has imposed a 30-day Punjab drone ban on outdoor drone flights across the province under Section 144, citing security concerns, while allowing limited use of small drones for events held inside halls and marquees.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said organisers would be responsible for ensuring the safe use of drones during indoor events. Intelligence and law enforcement agencies have been exempted from the ban, according to a notification issued by the department.
Punjab drone ban: Committees to regulate permitted use
The spokesperson said district-level “Safe Drone Usage Committees” had been established to regulate drone use. Written permission for drone flights for agricultural, irrigation and research purposes would be granted by the respective committees.
Drone flights conducted with written permission from the relevant committee would be exempt from the general ban.
Punjab drone ban: Strict implementation ordered
The notification, issued by the secretary home under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, directs all district administrations and police across the province to ensure strict implementation of the orders.
The spokesperson said public safety, maintenance of law and order, and protection of public and private property remained the government’s foremost priorities.
FAQs
How long is the Punjab drone ban?
The ban lasts 30 days and applies to outdoor drone flights across the whole province. It was imposed under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Why was the ban imposed?
The Punjab Home Department cited security concerns, along with public safety, maintenance of law and order, and protection of public and private property.
Can drones still be used at events?
Yes, in a limited way. Small drones may be used for events held inside halls and marquees, and organisers are responsible for their safe use.
Who is exempt from the ban?
Intelligence and law enforcement agencies are exempt. Drone flights for agricultural, irrigation and research purposes are also exempt if they have written permission from the district’s Safe Drone Usage Committee.
How do farmers and researchers get permission?
They must apply to their district’s Safe Drone Usage Committee. Only flights with written permission from the relevant committee are allowed under the exemption.
