Mumbai Police has imposed a strict ban on the use of drones and remote-controlled flying devices across the city until June 3, 2025. This decision comes in response to heightened security concerns due to ongoing national tensions. The order, issued by the Commissioner of Police of Greater Mumbai, prohibits several aerial devices, including:

• Drones

• Remote-controlled microlight aircraft

• Paragliders

• Paramotors

• Hand gliders

• Hot air balloons

• Any other aerial devices

Why the Ban Was Imposed

The ban was enforced to ensure public safety following rising national security concerns. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has already designated Mumbai as a 'red zone' for drone operations, categorizing any unauthorized drone flights as a serious violation of regulations. The ban aims to prevent potential misuse of drones and other flying devices in light of the current security climate.

The move follows the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed in a deadly strike carried out by militants. This attack has significantly heightened national security measures across the country.

Incident in Powai: A Violation of the Ban

Despite the clear directive, a 23-year-old man was caught operating a drone in the Powai area of Mumbai on May 11, violating the ban. The individual was subsequently booked under relevant sections by the Mumbai Police. DCP (Operations), Akbar Pathan, confirmed the incident and stressed the importance of public cooperation in maintaining public safety.

Security Concerns: Operation Sindoor and Retaliation

The timing of the drone ban is linked to ongoing national security measures following the Pahalgam terror attack. In response to the attack, the Indian Armed Forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' on May 7, targeting nine terror sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a retaliatory move aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructures.

In retaliation, Pakistan has used unmanned aerial systems (UAS), drones, and combat vehicles to launch attacks on several Indian Air Force (IAF) bases. However, the Indian Air Defence systems successfully neutralized these threats, as confirmed by Air Marshal AK Bharti during a press briefing.

Details of the Pakistani Attacks

On May 8, around 8 PM local time, several Pakistani unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and drones launched simultaneous raids on multiple IAF bases, including Jammu, Udhampur, Pathankot, Amritsar, Bathinda, Dalhousie, and Jaisalmer. These attacks came in waves, and the Indian air defence systems were fully prepared to tackle them. The raids were neutralized using legacy systems, such as Pechora missiles and IAF SAMAR systems.

Air Marshal Bharti assured the public that there was no damage on the ground from these incursions, as the IAF effectively intercepted the hostile drones and combat vehicles before they could inflict harm.

The Growing Threat of Drones in Warfare

The use of drones in military operations and for surveillance has become increasingly prevalent, particularly as part of Pakistan’s strategic response to India’s military actions. The recent drone incursions are a clear indication of the growing role of unmanned aerial systems in modern warfare.

Given this rising threat, the Mumbai Police's temporary ban on drones is part of a larger effort to control unauthorized flying devices and minimize any potential security risks in the city, especially with the heightened possibility of drone-related attacks.

Impact on Civilian and Commercial Activities

While the ban primarily targets security threats, it will also affect commercial drone operators, aerial photographers, and other legitimate users of drones for professional purposes. Mumbai’s bustling commercial sectors and tourism activities often rely on aerial footage for events, film production, and surveillance. However, under the current circumstances, the safety of the city’s residents and national security are the top priorities.

Public Cooperation Needed

The Mumbai Police have urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and avoid violating the ban. DCP Pathan highlighted that individuals using drones or any other flying devices illegally will face strict legal action under the relevant sections of the law.

Conclusion: Vigilance and Preparedness

The temporary ban on drones and flying devices in Mumbai is a crucial step in ensuring the city’s safety amid growing security threats from adversarial forces. As tensions continue to rise between India and Pakistan, Mumbai’s airspace remains highly sensitive to unauthorized aerial activities. Authorities are taking every measure to prevent any incidents that could compromise public safety or national security.

With the DGCA red zone designation and the recent military responses, Mumbai’s residents and visitors alike are urged to stay vigilant and abide by the temporary restrictions. The situation remains fluid, and authorities will continue to assess security risks as they arise.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Integrity Borana Weaves, Belrise Industries, Accretion Pharmaceuticals, Wagons Learning.

The Current active IPO are Accretion Pharmaceuticals, Integrity Infrabuild Developers and Virtual Galaxy Infotech.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.