Punjab bans flying drones in open spaces for 30 days
The Punjab Home Department has banned flying drones in open spaces across the province for 30 days, citing security concerns. Limited use is allowed indoors, and district committees can grant written permission in approved cases.
- Drone flying in open spaces is banned across Punjab for 30 days
- Small drones may be used to cover events inside halls and marquees
- Intelligence and law enforcement agencies are exempt
- District Safe Drone Usage Committees can grant written permission
The Punjab government has banned the flying of drones in open spaces across the province for 30 days, citing security concerns. The Home Department issued a notification on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, and announced the decision in Lahore.
According to the notification, the Punjab home secretary imposed the ban under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898. The provincial government said public safety, the maintenance of law and order and the protection of property were its key priorities behind the decision.
The notification allows limited use of small drones to cover events held inside halls and marquees. A Home Department spokesperson said this applies to indoor gatherings, and Daily Pakistan reported that wedding halls are included. Organizers of such events are responsible for ensuring that drones are used safely.
Daily Pakistan reported that organizers must make sure the use of a drone poses no risk to participants, staff or other people present.
Intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies have been exempted from the ban. According to the spokesperson, those agencies may use drones to carry out their duties, while other people and organizations must follow the prescribed rules.
The Home Department has also set up Safe Drone Usage Committees at district level. These committees can give written permission for the safe use of drones, including for agricultural, irrigation and research purposes. Drone operations covered by written permission from the relevant committee are exempt from the ban. Daily Pakistan reported that the system is meant to regulate drone use and reduce security concerns.
Administrations and police across the province have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the orders during the 30-day period.
Why it matters
The ban applies across Punjab and affects anyone who flies drones there, including event organizers, farmers and researchers, who must now seek written permission from district committees in approved cases.
