Ahead of Republic Day, Delhi Police prohibits use of UAVs, hot air balloons

New Delhi [India], Jan. 6 (ANI): In view of Republic Day celebrations in the national capital and advanced Budget Session, the Delhi Police on Friday issued a circular prohibiting mini and micro aerial vehicles, including hot air balloons in the state citing that anti-social elements or terrorist may pose a threat to the country. The order will come into effect from January 9th and shall continue to remain in force for up to 32 days, i.e. February 9 (both days inclusive) "Incidents of sighting of sub-conventional aerial platforms have been reported in Delhi recently. It has been reported that certain criminal, anti-social elements or terrorists, inimical to India may pose a threat to the safety of general public, dignitaries and vital installations by use of such sub-conventional aerial platforms," the order read. "In pursuance of the Ministry of Home Affairs, I, Alok Verma, Commissioner of Delhi Police, in exercise of the power conferred upon me by section 144 of Criminal Procedure Code, hereby prohibit fluting sub- conventional aerial platforms like para-gliders, para motors, hang gliders, UAVs UASs, micro light aircrafts, remotely piloted aircrafts, hot bail balloons, small powered aircrafts, quad copters or para jumping from aircraft over the jurisdiction of NCT of Delhi due to Republic Day and Budget Session," it added. Breaking the law will be punishable under Section of 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Abu Dhabi's crown prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will be the chief guest. A contingent of the UAE army will also take part in accordance with the new practice to honour the foreign dignitary. Meanwhile, security has been tightened in the national capital, particularly around Rajpath and the parade route as the nation celebrates its 68th Republic Day. Multi layered security has been put in place and elaborate ground-to-air security and traffic arrangements have been made and the airspace over the capital will be monitored by special radars. Barricades have been installed at all exit-entry points and sensitive locations. Security personnel have been deployed at key locations in the city, including metros, market places, shopping malls, railway stations and inter-state bus terminals. (ANI)