LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 around airports and Pakistan Air Force (PAF) bases across the province, citing serious risks to flight operations and public safety.

According to a notification issued by the Home Department on May 19, activities including pigeon homing, the use of laser lights and the throwing of meat or sacrificial leftovers for carnivorous birds near air bases and airports have been banned with immediate effect.

The department stated that such activities could create hazards for aircraft operations and aviation assets, prompting authorities to enforce preventive measures under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

In a statement shared on X, the Home Department said birds attracted to meat waste and filth posed serious threats to aircraft and passengers, while laser lights used by shops, commercial plazas and residents near airport areas could interfere with flight operations.

The notification said there were sufficient grounds to invoke Section 144 in order to prevent disturbances to public peace, ensure safety of lives and property, and maintain tranquility in sensitive aviation zones.

Under Section 144(6) of the CrPC, the Punjab Home Secretary imposed the restrictions within a 13-kilometre radius around all Pakistan Air Force bases and commercial airports operating across the province.

The restrictions will remain in force for 30 days and will apply to all commercial airports and designated funnel areas surrounding aviation facilities in Punjab.