Punjab imposes 30-day ban on outdoor drone flights

LAHORE: 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, citing security concerns.

The notification, issued by the Home Department, prohibits outdoor use of drones during the specified period, while allowing limited use of small drones for coverage of events held inside halls and marquees.

The notification said responsibility for ensuring the safe use of drones during indoor events would rest with the event organisers.

Exemptions for security and authorised uses

Intelligence agencies and law enforcement institutions have been exempted from the restrictions.

The Home Department has also established district-level “Safe Drone Usage Committees” to issue written permissions for authorised drone operations.

According to the notification, written permission may be granted for the safe use of drones for agricultural, irrigation and research purposes. Drone operations covered by written approval from the relevant committee will remain exempt from the ban.

The Home Department forwarded the notification to senior provincial officials, including the chief secretary, Punjab police chief, chief minister’s office, law department, information department, divisional commissioners, Lahore police, CTD and Special Branch, regional police officers, deputy commissioners and city and district police officers for information and necessary action.