Patna: A rehearsal for the Indian Air Force’s upcoming air show in Patna was briefly disrupted on Monday when an unauthorized drone appeared in restricted airspace, prompting concerns over a potential security lapse. The incident occurred during a fighter jet drill ahead of the two-day event, sparking immediate action from authorities.
The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team of the Indian Air Force was conducting flight rehearsals over JP Ganga Path, where the air show is set to take place from April 22 and 23, when a drone was spotted dangerously close to one of the aircraft. Air Force officials immediately flagged the intrusion to local police.
Drone Operator Detained
Following the alert, Patna Traffic Police detained a young man in connection with the incident. He was subsequently handed over to Gandhi Maidan Police Station, where he is currently being questioned. According to station in-charge Rajesh, “The matter is under investigation. The youth has been detained and interrogations are ongoing.”
Initial reports suggest the youth was filming the air show rehearsal with the drone. While he claimed he was capturing footage of Sabhyata Dwar, police officials are treating the matter with seriousness due to the no-fly zone status declared by the Indian Air Force over the region.
No-Fly Zone Enforcement and Legal Ramifications
Traffic DSP Alok confirmed the area had been designated a strict no-fly zone during the duration of the air show preparations and the event itself. “The Air Force raised an objection immediately. The youth had violated airspace rules, and we’ve taken him into custody for further questioning,” Alok said.
Authorities have reiterated that unauthorized drone use in restricted zones can carry severe legal consequences. “Such acts can be considered a national security threat,” said a police spokesperson, adding that offenders may be charged under stringent laws, including provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act.
Public Urged to Cooperate
The Patna Police and district administration have urged the public to adhere strictly to all airspace restrictions during the air show. Citizens have been advised to refrain from operating any form of aerial device—including drones—within the designated no-fly zone, which has been implemented for the safety of pilots and spectators alike.
Air Show to Honour 1857 Martyrs
The air show, set to be held on JP Ganga Path near Sabhyata Dwar, is being organised in honour of Veer Kunwar Singh’s Shaurya Jayanti, commemorating the heroes of the First War of Independence in 1857. It will feature high-octane aerial displays by the Indian Air Force’s elite Surya Kiran team.
Despite the drone scare, authorities confirmed that the event will proceed as scheduled, with enhanced surveillance and tightened security measures in place.
