The Mumbai Police have imposed a temporary ban on the operation of drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, paragliders and hot air balloons within city limits, citing potential terrorist threats and public safety concerns. The ban, which took effect on April 4 and will remain in place until May 5, was announced through a prohibitory order.
Authorities say the move is a precautionary measure to mitigate risks posed by aerial platforms that could be exploited by terrorist groups or other anti-social actors. According to the order, such flying objects may be used to target high-profile individuals or densely populated areas, posing significant threats to public safety and infrastructure.
“In order to prevent possible acts of sabotage and ensure the safety of citizens and VVIPs, restrictions are required on the operation of aerial devices that may be misused for hostile purposes,” the order stated.
The prohibition applies to all private aerial activity within the jurisdiction of the Mumbai Police, with exceptions granted only for official law enforcement operations or by specific authorization from the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations).
Violators of the ban may face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with disobedience to lawful orders issued by public servants.
This is not the first time Mumbai has enforced such a ban. Similar restrictions were imposed during last year’s Lok Sabha election campaign, particularly during visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior officials. The police also reimposed the ban during the December festive season, when large public gatherings increased the perceived threat level.
The latest order highlights ongoing concerns among Indian security agencies over the potential misuse of consumer-grade drones and other aerial systems in urban areas, especially in the context of high-profile events or political activity.
Post Image Credit: Ricardo Gomez Angel via Unsplash
