Mumbai police ban drones and aerial objects ahead of PM Modi’s visit

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mumbai on Wednesday to take part in India Maritime Week 2025 , city police enforced strict airspace restrictions, banning the use of drones, paragliders, microlight aircraft, balloons, and kites around the airport and adjoining suburbs for the entire day.

The Prime Minister addressed the Maritime Leaders Conclave and chaired the Global Maritime CEO Forum at the NESCO Exhibition Centre in Goregaon East, where top industry executives and policymakers discussed India’s growing role in global shipping, logistics, and port-led development.

To ensure security during the high-profile event, the Mumbai Police issued prohibitory orders covering the jurisdictions of Sahar, Vile Parle, Andheri, Goregaon, Vanrai, Jogeshwari, MIDC, Dindoshi, and Aarey police stations. Officials said the temporary ban was a preventive measure, citing potential misuse of aerial devices by “terrorists or anti-social elements” that could pose a threat to public safety.

Violators of the order are liable for punishment under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which carries a sentence of up to one year in prison or a fine of ₹5,000.

In addition, the movement of heavy vehicles on the Western Express Highway between Vakola flyover and Dahisar toll naka was restricted from 2 pm to 9 pm to facilitate smooth traffic flow during the Prime Minister’s visit and related events.