The Punjab provincial government has extended the ban on drone use in open areas across the province for another 30 days due to security concerns. The decision is unrelated to Trump Drone Tariffs on Imports.
Punjab Extends Outdoor Drone Ban for Another 30 Days
This order has been made by the Punjab Home Department under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. This order applies to the whole province. As per this order, drones cannot be used in outdoor or open areas during the ban period. It has been instructed that district administrations and police take all necessary steps in this regard.
Small Drones Allowed Inside Event Venues
The ban is not a total ban on small drones, as some will be allowed inside halls and marquees. Event organizers will be responsible for ensuring safe drone use and preventing any trouble for attendees. The Mercedes Tytan Drone Partnership highlights the growing role of drones in advanced technology.
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The limited permission only covers the permitted indoor drone flights. The province-wide ban of drone flights outdoors is still effective. The ban does not cover the activities of the intelligence and law enforcement departments. These departments can continue to employ the use of drones in their normal duties. The exception makes it possible for these departments to utilize the drone technology in carrying out their activities.
It is also reported that the Home Department has established district-level committees for Safe Drone Usage. These committees will address all applications for usage of drones in the designated areas. Requests for such usage will have to be made to the concerned committee. It will only after obtaining written consent of the committee that one can use drones for the activities under exemption.
Agriculture, Irrigation, and Research
Allowed activities include agriculture, irrigation, and research. Drones may be used for these purposes after written approval from the district-level Safe Drone Usage Committee. Under the Pakistan Nationwide Drone Ban, these activities will be exempt once approval is granted. This procedure enables the drone to perform its functions while at the same time controlling the flights of drones outdoors during 30 days restriction period.
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Government Highlights Public Safety
According to a spokesperson for the Home Department, public safety, law and order, and property protection are the top priorities of the Punjab Government. The government has therefore directed all district administrations and police forces in Punjab to strictly enforce the order related to the Punjab Anti-Drone Unit.
Under the extended restriction, flying of drones outdoors is not allowed in Punjab, but indoors and on special exemptions and written approval, it can be done. News source eTimes Pakistan.
