NEW DELHI: Delhi Police has restricted the use of laser lights and drones in the funnel area of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, marking a significant step in protecting and maintaining aviation safety in India.
The prohibition will remain in effect until January 26, 2025, having been in effect since November 28, 2024. It is done in response to the growing concerns over safety risks of such activities, especially in regard to aircraft operations.
The usage of laser lights near the airport has become more and more of a problem, as many nearby establishments, such as hotels and banquet halls, utilize strong lasers for events.
Especially during nighttime, these lights can divert pilots from much-needed attention during specific flight stages. As their use is now unregulated, the authorities are acting fast to put a stop to these distractions and ensure safe operations in airports.
Following intelligence reports of possible terrorist threats with unmanned aerial systems (UAS), the police have banned drone activities in the area along with the laser bans. Drones pose a direct threat to air traffic and can be utilized maliciously. Section 223(a) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), 2023, states that the new regulations must be followed exactly.
The authorities have said that failure to comply with the restrictions will result in penalties.
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