Argus News - No-Drone Zones Declared Ahead of President Murmu’s Odisha Visit

Bhubaneswar, Jan 29: Security arrangements have been significantly tightened across Odisha ahead of President Droupadi Murmu’s six-day visit to the state from February 2 to February 7, with authorities declaring multiple locations as no-drone and no-flying zones.

According to the Odisha Police, all venues on the President’s itinerary, including places of public programmes and night halts, have been brought under strict aerial surveillance restrictions in line with VVIP security protocols.

The Intelligence Directorate issued specific instructions banning the operation of drones or any unmanned aerial vehicles in and around key locations in Khordha, Jajpur, Balasore, Puri and Mayurbhanj districts.

The restricted zones include Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar, programme venues and night halt locations such as Jagannath Temple in Puri, the venue and guest house at Rairangpur, Similipal Tiger Reserve, Maa Biraja Temple in Jajpur, and designated programme sites in Balasore.

Police officials said the ban applies to all forms of aerial objects, including drones, during the President’s visit. The Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police and the Superintendents of Police of the concerned districts have been directed to strictly enforce the restrictions.

Authorities warned that any violation of the no-flying will invite legal action under relevant laws. District Collectors have also been instructed to install signboards and issue public notices at prominent locations to raise awareness about the restrictions.

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The Odisha Police deployed a multi-layered security arrangement for the entire duration of the visit.

Director General of Police YB Khurania directed all field units to ensure that the President’s visit concludes smoothly without any law-and-order issues.