Drone Ban – Chandigarh Declares No-Flying Zone Ahead of VVIP Movements
Drone Ban – The Chandigarh Administration has imposed a temporary ban on drone and unmanned aerial vehicle operations across the Union Territory on July 10 and from July 16 to July 17. The measure has been announced in connection with scheduled VVIP movements, including Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan’s onward travel towards Shimla and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the region.
Orders Issued Under BNSS Provisions
District Magistrate Nishant Kumar Yadav, IAS, issued separate prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. The administration said the decision was taken after assessing security concerns linked to the possible misuse of drones, including the risk of unmanned devices being used to carry improvised explosive devices.
Officials said the restrictions are intended to support security arrangements for visiting dignitaries while also protecting residents and public spaces during the notified period.
Ban Covers Entire Union Territory
Under the first order, drone and UAV flights will not be allowed anywhere in Chandigarh from 12 am on July 10 until the end of that day. A second order will apply from 12 am on July 16 and remain effective through July 17.
The administration has not permitted recreational, commercial or other unauthorised drone activity during these periods. Residents, operators and organisations using UAVs have been advised to follow the restrictions and avoid flying any unmanned aircraft within the Union Territory.
Security Agencies Exempted From Restrictions
The prohibition does not apply to authorised security and law-enforcement agencies. Police personnel, paramilitary forces, the Indian Air Force, Special Protection Group staff and other individuals approved by a competent government authority will be allowed to operate drones when required for official duties.
Such exemptions are intended to ensure that security agencies can carry out surveillance, coordination and other operational tasks connected with the VVIP visits.
Legal Action Warned for Violations
The District Magistrate said the orders were issued on an urgent basis because of the nature of the security assessment. They have been promulgated ex parte, meaning they were put into effect without prior individual notice to drone operators.
Anyone found violating the restrictions may face action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, along with other relevant legal provisions. The administration has urged the public to cooperate with the directions and remain aware of the temporary aviation restrictions.
Notices to Be Displayed Publicly
To ensure wider awareness, the orders will be displayed on notice boards at the District Magistrate’s office and the District Courts in Chandigarh. The Department of Public Relations will also circulate the information through local newspapers.
The administration said the restrictions are limited to the specified dates and are part of precautionary arrangements for the planned high-security visits.