LAHORE – The Punjab government has extended restrictions on outdoor drone flights across the province for another 30 days under Section 144, citing security concerns and public safety.

However, drone use is not completely prohibited. Individuals, organisations and businesses requiring drones for agricultural, irrigation or research purposes can seek written permission from the district-level Safe Drone Usage Committee.

According to the Punjab Home Department, the drone flights covered by the ban will be exempted only when the applicant obtains written approval from the relevant district Safe Drone Usage Committee.

How to obtain permission?

Those seeking to operate a drone for permitted purposes will need to approach the Safe Drone Usage Committee at the district level.

The committee has been established by the Home Department to assess requests and issue written permission for the safe use of drones.

The applicants should obtain the committee’s written approval before operating a drone. Once permission is granted, the drone’s use will be exempt from the restrictions imposed under Section 144, subject to the terms of the approval and applicable safety requirements.

The Home Department has specifically allowed limited use of small drones inside halls and marquees during indoor events. Organisers of such events will remain responsible for ensuring that drones are operated safely.

Who is exempt?

Intelligence agencies and law-enforcement institutions have been exempted from the restrictions in the performance of their official duties.

The provincial government has imposed the restrictions under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898.

The Home Department has directed district administrations and police authorities across Punjab to strictly enforce the orders.

The provimcial government said the restrictions have been introduced primarily to address security concerns and protect public safety, peace and property.

For ordinary recreational or outdoor drone flying, the permission from the relevant district authority is therefore essential during the 30-day restriction period.

The drone operators should not assume that a drone can be flown outdoors simply because it is small or commercially available.

The Home Department said the measures are aimed at ensuring the safe and responsible use of drone technology while allowing legitimate agricultural, irrigation, research and other approved activities to continue.