LAHORE – The Punjab government has officially extended the ban on flying drones outdoors across the entire province for another 30 days. This urgent notification, issued by the Punjab Home Department on Friday, citing serious risks to public safety and the security of sensitive installations.
For photographers, content creators and hobbyists in Pakistan, this is a vital update. If you ignore these rules, you could face immediate legal action, including the seizure of your equipment or even an arrest by the Punjab Police.
The ban is enforced under Section 144 (6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. This law allows the government to stop specific activities to prevent potential threats or “untoward activities.” Authorities have made it clear that keeping the public safe is the top priority during this period of heightened security concerns.
Why the Punjab Government Decided to Extend the Ban
The Home Department previously imposed a drone ban on February 25, which expired on March 25. However, after reviewing the “overall security situation,” officials decided that the restriction must continue. According to the official statement, it is imperative to protect people and buildings against any potential threat. Drones, while useful for media, can sometimes be used for unauthorized surveillance of sensitive government areas.
By implementing Section 144, the government gives local administrations and the police the power to take strict action against violators. This means that if a drone is spotted in an open area—such as a public park, a busy street, or near a government office—the operator is technically committing a crime. The ban is expected to remain in force for 30 days from the date of issuance unless the government decides to withdraw it earlier.
The One Surprising Exception is Indoor Events
While outdoor flying is strictly prohibited, the notification includes a specific exception that is very important for the wedding and event industry in Pakistan. The ban does not apply to the “use of small drones for coverage of indoor activities, such as in halls or marquees.” This means you can still capture beautiful aerial shots of a wedding or a corporate event as long as the drone stays inside the building. However, there is a major condition: the safe usage of the drone is the full responsibility of the organizer. If a drone crashes and causes an injury or damage inside a hall, the person who organized the function will be held legally accountable. This is a crucial detail for event planners to discuss with their photography teams before any event begins.
Legal Consequences
Many people wonder how a simple hobby can lead to an arrest. When Section 144 is active, any person who fails to follow the government’s order can be charged under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code. This law deals with “disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant.”
If the Punjab Police find someone flying a drone outdoors, they have the authority to:
- Confiscate the Drone: These devices are expensive, and getting them back from police custody can be a long legal battle.
- File an FIR: An First Information Report (FIR) can be registered against the pilot or the owner of the drone.
- Short-term Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the violation, the court can order a fine or jail time.
The Home Department spokesperson emphasized that these steps are “precautionary measures.” In a province as large as Punjab, maintaining law and order requires strict control over the skies. For now, professional photographers are advised to use “jibs” or long camera poles for outdoor shots, as these are safe and legal alternatives to drones.
Safety Tips for the Next 30 Days
If you own a drone in Punjab, the best way to protect your equipment and your freedom is to stay informed. Here are three things you should do immediately:
- The ban started this Friday and will last for 30 days. Mark your calendar so you know when it is safe to fly outdoors again.
- If you have outdoor shoots booked, explain the law to your clients. Most people in Pakistan understand the importance of security and will agree to change the plan.
- Use this time to practice flying in confined spaces for indoor events, as this is currently the only legal way to use your drone for business.
The government’s goal is to ensure that peace is preserved across the province. While the 30-day ban might be an inconvenience for some, it is a necessary step to safeguard the citizens of Punjab. Keep following the official news updates to see if the Home Department issues any further instructions or changes the rules before the month is over.
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