The Pune Police have strictly prohibited the use of laser and high beam lights in the vicinity of Pune International Airport amidst the ongoing warlike scenario with Pakistan and increased security measures around the nation. Joint Commissioner of Police (JCP) Ranjan Kumar Sharma issued the directive, which would take effect immediately and last for 60 days.
According to the directive from the Special Branch, the use of high-intensity lights — often seen at public events and celebrations — has been restricted within a 15-kilometre radius of the airport located in Lohgaon. The ban is aimed at ensuring the safety of both civilian and military aircraft using the airfield.
Pune International Airport is a dual-use facility handling commercial flights as well as operations by the Indian Air Force. “During nighttime flight operations, pilots rely on visual cues from the runway and guidance from the Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower. Laser beams and other bright lights in the vicinity can interfere with these signals, potentially endangering lives,” said JCP Sharma.
Recent instances of such lights being used at events in and around Lohgaon have raised concerns about pilot distraction and aviation safety. In response, amid a period of heightened national awareness, the police have moved quickly to eliminate this risk.
Sharma informed that any infractions of this prohibition will result in judicial action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which punishes disobedience to directives from public officials.
In the current delicate environment, the police have called on residents, event planners, and companies to abide by the order and work together to protect safety and security.
