RAWALPINDI: The Deputy Commissioner of Rawalpindi has put a ban in place around a five-kilometer area near Islamabad International Airport and two military airbases, Nur Khan (Chaklala) Airbase and Qasim Airbase, to prevent bird strikes with aircraft.
As per the details, the ban covers activities like flying pigeons, keeping pigeons in large cages, flying kites, and using any type of drones.
It also prohibits throwing garbage or animal remains, especially from sacrificial animals, near the airport or in areas where planes land or take off.
Anyone who breaks these rules will face legal action and could be arrested. The decision came from a meeting led by Additional Deputy Commissioner General Ehsan Tariq, who ordered the ban to be enforced immediately.
Authorities were told to start inspections and monitoring to ensure the rules are followed. The meeting also discussed keeping areas around the airports clean during Eidul Azha, focusing on places like Khurram Colony, Sadiqabad, Koral Chowk, Dhok Hafiz, and Chah Sultan.
Departments were instructed to maintain hygiene and manage waste properly in these areas.
Drone-Banned Zones in Rawalpindi (Within 5km Radius)
| Area Name | Nearby Facility | Ban Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Khurram Colony | Nur Khan (Chaklala) Airbase | Risk of bird/drone strikes |
| Sadiqabad | Nur Khan (Chaklala) Airbase | Aircraft safety concerns |
| Koral Chowk | Islamabad International Airport | Within 5km restricted radius |
| Dhok Hafiz | Qasim Airbase | Close to military air traffic zone |
| Chah Sultan | Nur Khan & Qasim Airbases | High sensitivity zone |
Separately, the Punjab government announced that Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) will be enforced from June 5 to June 11, including in Rawalpindi, to maintain public peace and safety.
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A government notification stated that during Eidul Azha, some people burn animal heads and feet, causing unhealthy smoke and bad smells.
It also noted that people throw animal remains on roadsides and into drains, leading to bad smells, unsanitary conditions, and blocked sewer systems.
The notification mentioned that some individuals swim in canals, ponds, lakes, riverbanks, and distributaries during Eid holidays, which puts their lives at risk.
Additionally, cattle sellers set up illegal sale points for sacrificial animals in populated areas, causing traffic problems and spreading diseases.
These activities are said to harm public health, create disturbances, and cause public annoyance, which could disrupt peace and order.
