Punjab Extends Ban on Outdoor Drone Operations for 30 More Days

Lahore: (Staff Reporter) – The Punjab Home Department has extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province, continuing the ban on flying drones in open areas for another 30 days due to security concerns.

According to the department’s spokesperson, the restriction has been imposed under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, with the aim of ensuring public safety, maintaining law and order, and protecting property.

However, the use of small drones will be permitted inside halls and marquees during indoor events, with organizers responsible for ensuring their safe operation.

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

The Home Department has also established Safe Drone Usage Committees at the district level to grant written permission for drone operations. These committees will authorize the safe use of drones for agricultural, irrigation, and research purposes, and drones operated with their written approval will be exempt from the restrictions.

The Punjab Home Secretary has directed all district administrations and police authorities to ensure strict implementation of the orders across the province.