Mumbai Enforces Drone and Firecracker Restrictions Amid Security Concerns and Pollution Woes

Mumbai Police have temporarily banned drones, paragliders, and similar devices for a month due to security concerns ahead of assembly polls and 26/11 anniversary. Additionally, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has issued guidelines to limit firecracker use during Diwali to curb pollution and protect public health.

Mumbai Police have announced a temporary ban on all types of drones, paragliders, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, and hot air balloons, effective for a month. The measure, detailed in an official order under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, is aimed at averting potential threats from terrorist elements targeting VVIPs and public safety in the Brihanmumbai Police Commissionerate area. The ban will span from October 31 to November 29, coinciding with heightened sensitivity due to election campaigns and the anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attack.

The directive warns of severe penalties for violations, in line with section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Significant public events, including election rallies, necessitate heightened security measures amid fears of aerial attacks using drones or similar devices.

On a separate note, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued new firecracker guidelines amidst rising pollution concerns. The BMC has urged citizens to limit firecracker use during the Diwali festival, advising against their use post 10 PM and advocating for explosions to be carried out in open areas away from congested zones. The guidelines stress the environmental and health impacts, particularly on vulnerable demographics such as children and the elderly, as air quality deteriorates.

(With inputs from agencies.)