Lahore: The Punjab government has decided to extend Section 144 in the province for another 30 days due to security concerns. Under this decision, the ban on flying drones in open places will continue. The Punjab Home Department has directed the district administration and police to ensure implementation of the orders.
According to officials, the aim of the ban is to ensure public safety, law and order and protection of property. The government has taken this step under Section 144(6) of the Criminal Procedure Code 1898.
However, the government has not imposed a complete ban on all types of drone use. Small drones can be used in limited quantities during events held in halls and marquees. The concerned organizers will have to take responsibility for their safe use.
Intelligence agencies and law enforcement departments have been exempted from the ban. These agencies will be able to use drones under official and operational requirements.
The government has also left a way open for agricultural, irrigation and research activities. Those using drones for such purposes will have to take written permission from the district-level Safe Drone Usage Committee. Approved operations will be exempted from the ban.
The drone ban in Punjab began in February this year. At that time, the government had declared unregulated drone activities as a potential threat to public safety and law and order. Later, the Home Department extended the ban at different times.
The recent decision makes it clear that the government wants to maintain a balance between security and the legitimate use of drone technology. The aim of linking the use of drones to a permission system, especially in areas like agriculture and research, is to establish a distinction between surveillance and essential use.
On the other hand, it will be necessary for ordinary citizens and drone operators to comply with the existing order. The authorities concerned can take legal action if a drone is flown in an open area without permission. The district administration and police have been instructed to keep a strict vigil in this regard.
