Punjab govt imposes Section 144 around airports, PAF bases for 30 days

The Punjab government on Thursday banned multiple activities near airports and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases, which may pose a “serious risk” to flight operations and aviation assets, under Section 144 for 30 days.

A notification issued by the Home Department dated May 19 said that, according to reliable sources, certain activities — including pigeon homing, the use of laser lights, and throwing of meat (sadqa) for the consumption of carnivorous birds around air bases and airports — may “pose a serious risk to flight operations and aviation assets”.

It said that there were sufficient grounds to proceed under Section 144 as an “immediate prevention to disturbance of public peace, safety of lives and property of public and tranquility”.

Therefore, the government banned pigeon homing; the use of laser lights by hotels, malls, or shops, etc.; and throwing of meat (sadqa) in open areas or on rooftops.

The Home Department secretary, under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), banned the activities in and around the funnel area of all PAF bases and commercial airports across the province within a 13km radius for a period of 30 days, with immediate effect.

The disposal of meat close to airports during Eidul Azha attracts birds, posing a serious threat to flight safety, passengers and nearby surroundings. Awareness campaigns have been launched in recent years to avoid such incidents.