The Punjab government has imposed a 30-day ban on outdoor drone flying across the entire province, citing public safety concerns. The restriction, enforced under Section 144 by the Punjab Home Department, is effective immediately and applies to all unmanned aerial vehicles.
This move aims to prevent potential risks such as privacy violations, airspace interference, and accidents. The ban reflects growing regulatory scrutiny over drone usage in densely populated urban areas like Lahore. While temporary, it underscores the need for clearer drone policies and enforcement mechanisms in the region.
According to an official notification issued by the Punjab Home Department, the use of any drone or drone-mounted camera is now prohibited in public spaces. Police have been directed to register cases against violators under Section 144, which empowers authorities to restrict activities in the interest of public safety and order.
Weddings get a limited exemption
The order allows a narrow exception: drones may be used during wedding ceremonies — but only indoors, inside private homes or wedding halls.
Flying drones outside homes, in open spaces, on streets, or in public venues remains strictly banned.
Will TV channels be exempt?
As of now, the notification does not clearly state whether television channels, news organisations or production houses will receive special exemptions.
The absence of clarity has raised concerns within Pakistan’s media industry. News channels routinely rely on drone footage for coverage of political rallies, public events, traffic monitoring, disaster reporting and investigative stories. Similarly, film and drama producers use aerial shots extensively in storytelling.
Industry insiders are questioning whether broadcasters will be required to obtain special permits — or if the ban applies uniformly to all individuals and institutions.
Impact on journalism and creativity
Critics argue that the blanket restriction could significantly curb visual storytelling in news, documentaries and dramas, limiting creative freedom and reducing production quality.
Drone footage has become an essential tool for:
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Breaking news coverage
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Live event broadcasting
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Environmental and infrastructure reporting
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Film and television productions
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Commercial advertising
A senior media producer described the decision as “a major setback for modern visual journalism.”
Security vs. creative freedom
Authorities have not publicly detailed the security rationale behind the move. However, drone restrictions are often linked to concerns over surveillance, security risks or misuse during sensitive events.
Legal experts note that Section 144 is typically temporary and may be revised depending on the security situation.
For now, until further clarification is issued, the ban remains in effect province-wide — leaving journalists, content creators and production houses waiting to see whether exemptions or licensing frameworks will follow.
The key question remains: Is this a necessary security measure — or a sweeping decision that risks stifling innovation and media freedom in Punjab?
