Delhi Declares No-Fly Zone For Drones Ahead Of Independence Day

Delhi will remain a no-fly zone for drones and several other aerial platforms from August 2 to August 16 as authorities tighten security arrangements ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.

The temporary restrictions, announced by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, prohibit the use of a broad range of airborne devices across the National Capital Territory.

The decision aims to minimise security risks during the high-profile national event.

The ban covers drones, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), quadcopters, remotely piloted aircraft, microlight aircraft, powered light aircraft, paragliders, paramotors, hang gliders, hot air balloons and para-jumping from aircraft.

The notification prohibits any such activity anywhere in Delhi during the notified period.

Police said the precautionary measure is based on security assessments that suggest aerial platforms could be misused by criminal or terrorist elements to target the public, visiting dignitaries or important installations.

Officials have therefore decided to suspend all operations involving these platforms until the security period ends.

Anyone found violating the restrictions will be liable for prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

As the order applies to the general public, officials issued it ex parte and will circulate it widely through the media. They will also display it at police establishments, tehsil offices and the offices of civic bodies, including the NDMC, MCD, PWD, DDA and the Delhi Cantonment Board.

The notification came into effect on July 31 and will remain in force from August 2 to August 16 unless revoked earlier.

Every year, Delhi enforces extensive security measures before Independence Day, with multiple agencies working together to protect the Red Fort ceremony and other sensitive locations.

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