Mumbai Police bans use of drones, flying devices till June 3; here's why

Citing security concerns, Mumbai Police has banned all drones and remote-controlled flying devices in the city till June 3. The order, issued by the Commissioner of Police, prohibits the use of drones, paragliders, paramotors, microlight aircraft, hot air balloons, and similar aerial devices.

This follows another month-long ban on firecrackers (May 11-June 9) ordered by DCP Akbar Pathan under the Maharashtra Police Act. The twin prohibitions have been issued following the recent cross-border tensions, in regards to the Pahalgam terror attack.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has classified Mumbai as a 'red zone' for drone operations, making unauthorised flights a punishable offence. Despite the restrictions, a 23-year-old cinematographer was booked on Sunday for flying a drone in Powai. DCP Akbar Pathan urged public compliance, emphasising the ban's role in ensuring safety. Citizens are advised to report violations via police helplines 100 or 112.