The provincial government of Punjab has enforced a complete and immediate ban on flying drones outdoors throughout the province, citing potential risks to public safety and security. A notification released on Wednesday by the Punjab Home Department highlighted that the unregulated use of drones could jeopardize public order, interfere with official duties, create law and order problems, and disrupt the province’s peaceful atmosphere.

The department emphasized the necessity of safeguarding citizens and installations from any potential threats or malicious activities, stating, “It is essential to ensure security of the people and installations/buildings against any potential threat or untoward activity, in the larger interest of public safety, security, peace and tranquility and to avoid any untoward incident.”

Officials stated that there were “sufficient grounds” to implement Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, which allows for the prohibition of outdoor drone flights to prevent disturbances to public peace and ensure the safety of lives and property across Punjab.

However, the ban will not affect the use of small drones for capturing footage within indoor venues, such as halls or marquees. The provincial administration clarified that organizers would be responsible for the safe operation of drones in these limited, confined indoor spaces during events and functions.

Intelligence and law enforcement agencies have been exempted from this ban, which is set to remain in effect for 30 days from its issuance date, or until it is rescinded earlier.