ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Punjab province has extended a ban on outdoor drone flights for another 30 days, citing security concerns and risks to public safety, the provincial home ministry said on Tuesday.
The announcement follows an order issued by Punjab’s Home Department under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, renewing restrictions first imposed last month and applied across the province, Pakistan’s most populous region.
Section 144 is a legal provision frequently used by Pakistani authorities to impose temporary restrictions in the interest of public safety and order. Provincial governments often invoke the measure to regulate public gatherings, demonstrations and activities deemed to pose security risks.
“A complete ban on flying drones in open areas remains in force across Punjab,” the home ministry spokesman said. “The Punjab government imposed the restriction due to security concerns related to the use of drones.”
The spokesman cited a notification stating that “credible reports and prevailing circumstances indicate that the increasing and unregulated use of drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) within the territorial limits of Punjab poses potential risks to public safety, security of public and private property and the maintenance of public order.”
The home ministry said unrestricted drone activity could interfere with official duties, create law-and-order concerns and disturb public peace.
Under the order, all outdoor drone operations remain prohibited across Punjab for 30 days unless the restriction is withdrawn earlier.
The ban does not apply to intelligence agencies or law enforcement bodies. Authorities have also allowed the limited use of small drones inside enclosed venues such as halls and marquees during private events and functions. The notification said organizers would be responsible for ensuring their safe operation.
Punjab, which includes the provincial capital Lahore and several of Pakistan’s largest cities, has periodically imposed restrictions on drone operations in recent years, particularly during major public events, religious gatherings and periods of heightened security concerns or political tensions.
The home department directed district administrations and police authorities across the province to ensure full implementation of the order.
