The Punjab government has imposed a ban on the use of drones during Muharram processions and gatherings in view of security concerns. The ban will apply to all types of use, including media coverage.
Provincial Information Minister Uzma Bukhari said in a press conference on Thursday, “The government has imposed a ban on the use of drones for coverage of processions or any other purpose. The suspension of mobile services and the ban on pillion riding on motorcycles will be decided according to the situation.”
Rangers and military personnel have been called in for security during Muharram, she said. Security agencies have already arrested several “sleeper cells”, while other threats are being monitored.
Uzma Bukhari said that more than 38,000 gatherings and more than 9,000 processions are expected across Punjab.
More than 2,38,000 police personnel and 35,000 volunteers will be deployed for their security, while other special units including the Dolphin Force and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) will also remain active.
Shee said that a strict code of conduct has been issued and a cyber security force will be activated to deal with hateful content on social media. She clarified that there will be a complete ban on the use of drones for coverage or any purpose during Muharram.
![Local residents at the Swat River, which is overflowing due to pre-monsoon heavy rains in the area on the outskirts of Mingora, the main town of Pakistan's Swat Valley [Sherin Zada/AP]](https://mmnews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Flooding-in-Swat-river-120x86.jpg)
