Punjab regions face drone restrictions and land survey protests

In Pakistan, the Punjab Home Department has implemented a 30-day ban on outdoor drone flights across the province under Section 144. The restriction aims to ensure public safety, maintain law and order, and protect property. While intelligence and law enforcement agencies are exempt, private users wishing to fly drones in open areas must obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from a newly formed government committee. Indoor use at events remains permitted.

In India, drone surveys in the Malwa region of Punjab have triggered protests and fears among farmers regarding land acquisition and agricultural corporatization. In villages such as Goniana Khurd and Ghaso Khana, residents have apprehended survey teams, citing concerns over land mapping and colored markings on fields. While local authorities state these surveys are intended for a GIS-based master plan or railway projects, villagers remain apprehensive about future land pooling.