Key Takeaways
- Punjab Home Department bans outdoor drone flights for 30 days.
- Indoor drone use allowed in wedding halls and marquees.
- Safe Drone Usage Committee to issue permissions for specific cases.
The Punjab Home Department has imposed a 30-day ban on outdoor drone flights across the province, citing security concerns. This decision, made under Section 144, affects the use of drones in outdoor areas throughout Punjab.
However, limited use of small drones is permitted at indoor events held in wedding halls and marquees. The responsibility for ensuring the safe use of drones during these events lies with the organizers.
Intelligence agencies and law enforcement institutions have been exempted from the restrictions. The Punjab Home Department has also formed a Safe Drone Usage Committee to issue written permissions for drone operations in specific cases.
Drone use for research purposes requires prior written approval from the committee. Any other permitted use will also require authorization from the Safe Drone Usage Committee and will remain exempt from the ban subject to the approved conditions.
The department stated that the restrictions have been introduced as a security measure and will remain in place for 30 days under Section 144. The ban is aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing potential security risks associated with drone usage.
The Safe Drone Usage Committee will play a crucial role in managing and overseeing the use of drones in Punjab. It will ensure that all drone operations are conducted safely and in compliance with the guidelines set by the department.
The ban is expected to be reviewed after the 30-day period, and the department will reassess the situation based on the outcomes and any feedback received from the public and stakeholders.
