Pindi bans drones ahead of high-stakes summit

Unauthorised aerial objects will be intercepted

RAWALPINDI:

In preparation for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, authorities have banned flying drones near VVIP routes and sensitive installations.

According to sources, the decision, based on reports from security agencies, aims to ensure heightened security during the event.

Sources said despite the ban, any unauthorised drones spotted in restricted airspace will be intercepted using jammers, and strict legal action will be taken against violators. The prohibition applies to areas adjacent to Nur Khan Airbase, Islamabad International Airport, and within a two-kilometer radius of routes designated for visiting delegations.

Law enforcement agencies have been tasked with monitoring these zones, with personnel stationed on tall buildings using binoculars to detect any drones.

Specialised equipment will also be employed to identify drones in the air.

Local district administrations and police have been formally notified of the ban, and are responsible for informing private production houses and media outlets.

In addition, an awareness campaign will be launched at the police station level to ensure the public is aware of the restrictions, which will be enforced from October 14 to October 18.

Aerial firing and kite flying have already been banned in the region.

The drone camera prohibition aims to guarantee 100 per cent security during the SCO summit and protect citizens from any inadvertent legal repercussions.

Security tightened

Rawalpindi police have decided to deploy 3,500 policemen on security duty for the Shanghai Cooperation Conference summit scheduled for October 15 and 16.

Sources revealed that around 700 officers will manage traffic flow, while the remaining security personnel will patrol key areas. Police mobiles, elite forces, and Dolphin Force units will provide security along the conference route, with rooftop snipers positioned strategically for added vigilance.

City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani stressed the importance of foolproof security, urging citizens to cooperate with the authorities. He confirmed that Section 144 has been imposed in Rawalpindi, banning illegal gatherings and double riding and that all government directives and standard operating procedures will be strictly followed.

The CPO expressed gratitude to the business community and organisations for their cooperation, stating that the protection of citizens' lives and property and the establishment of peace and order is the top priority, for which all necessary measures will be taken. He urged citizens to cooperate with the security measures implemented during the event.