The Punjab government has implemented Section 144 around airports and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases throughout the province, as announced by the provincial Home Department on Thursday. This measure aims to curb activities that could jeopardize flight safety and aviation assets.
A notification dated May 19 from the Home Department highlights that certain actions—such as pigeon homing, the use of laser lights, and the throwing of meat (sadqa) to attract carnivorous birds near airbases and airports—pose significant risks to flight operations. The department emphasized that these activities could lead to disturbances affecting public peace, safety of lives, and property.
Birds are drawn to meat and waste, creating serious hazards for aircraft and passengers alike. Additionally, the use of laser lights by shops, plazas, and individuals within airport vicinities disrupts flight procedures. Consequently, these practices have been prohibited to ensure operational safety.
The restrictions will be enforced across Punjab for a duration of 30 days and will apply to all commercial airports within the province. The Home Department secretary, invoking Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), has banned these activities within a 13-kilometer radius surrounding all PAF bases and commercial airports, effective immediately.
