Mumbai Bans Drones, Paragliders for a Month Amid Security Concerns

Mumbai Prohibits Drones, Paragliders for a Month Over Security Fears

Section 163 Prohibitory Order to Remain in Effect from April 4 to May 5

Mumbai: The Mumbai Police have imposed a one-month ban on the flight of drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, paragliders, and hot air balloons to avoid any attempts at sabotage, officials stated on Thursday.

The prohibitory order, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, will continue to be in force between April 4 and May 5, an official confirmed.

As per the order, there exists a possible danger from terrorists and anti-social forces who could misuse drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, and paragliders to make attacks on VVIPs, jeopardize public safety, damage public property, and disrupt law and order in the region of the Mumbai Police Commissionerate.

To avert such potential dangers, these activities have been restricted within the city. The directive lays down that there will be no drone, remote-controlled microlight vehicles, or paraglider activity under the jurisdiction of Mumbai Police, with the exception of aerial surveillance by the police or authorized operations with special permission of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations).

The order also says that anyone who is found to be violating these bans will be punished under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with disobedience of a lawful order given by a public servant.