Minister of Home, Government of India, has issued advisory to Uttarakhand Government to shoot down any unauthorised drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), found flying in its territory. Confirming, State DGP BS Sidhu said on Saturday that they are now studying the advisory in details. “However, police officers have been given necessary instructions to act on it,” he added.
He said that the Central Government has issued a warning asking the States to stop unauthorised drones or UAV flying in their territories. The flying of unauthorised drones or UAV especially in high-risk zones could pose a threat to public safety, in particular, and national security, in general. Considering this, intelligence officials have been directed to be alert, he said, adding that senior police officers have been directed to be in touch with the Central Government officers concerned. “We are now studying the advisory in details and would develop an action plan to act on such eventualities. Anyone wanting to fly a drone must seek prior permission,” he said.
The State police chief further said that two drones would be purchased by State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the tender process is on. “We are trying to procure them at the earliest so that they can be pressed into service during the Ardh Kumbh Mela, scheduled to start in January next year,” he added. Another police officer said that drones have several advantages. “They are now readily available at reasonable prices too,” the police chief said.
Saying that the Centre’s warning is justified, he said that the unauthorised drones might carry cameras or unwanted goods and while flying in the prohibited areas or in the vicinity of the important government facilities, they could threaten public safety and nation security.