Manipur Sets Drone Ban Ahead of Possible Prime Minister Visit
Imphal, September 4: In preparation for a possible visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Manipur on September 13, local authorities in Churachandpur district have announced a strict ban on flying drones and other aerial devices. This move comes amid ongoing security concerns and media reports suggesting the Prime Minister might visit the state.
While the PMO has not officially confirmed the visit, reports indicate that Modi could travel to Imphal, the capital of Manipur, and Churachandpur district shortly after inaugurating a major railway project in Mizoram. The new 51.38 km Bairabi-Sairang railway line connects Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl, to the railway network, making it the fourth northeastern city to be linked by train.
To ensure safety and security, Churachandpur District Magistrate Dharun Kumar S declared the entire district as a “No Drone Zone.” An official order issued on Thursday states that no aerial devices such as drones, balloons, or UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) will be allowed to operate within the district until further notice. Local authorities say the restrictions are necessary to prevent any security threats during the VVIP’s visit.
The magistrate’s order, issued under legal authority, warns that violating this ban could lead to legal action under Indian law. The move is part of broader security preparations, with officials working to secure the venue and routes for the potential visit.
Earlier, the Manipur government held high-level meetings to arrange security and logistics for a VVIP visit. A government notification did not specify who the visiting dignitary might be or the exact date, but officials are making preparations to host a high-profile event.
Manipur’s Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel held discussions with senior officials, emphasizing the importance of organizing the visit smoothly and securely. Security measures include installing jammers, conducting thorough checks, and ensuring strict surveillance at key locations like Kangla Fort in Imphal and in Churachandpur district.
Meanwhile, neighboring Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma mentioned that Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit Assam on September 13 and 14 to celebrate the birth centenary of legendary singer and cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika. The Prime Minister will also attend official celebrations in Guwahati on September 13.
In Mizoram, officials confirmed that the Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate the new railway link between Bairabi and Sairang on September 13. This 51.38 km railway line will connect Mizoram directly to the rest of India by rail for the first time, making Aizawl the fourth northeastern capital to be linked by train.
While reports from Mizoram mention that the Prime Minister might visit Manipur after the event, both Mizoram and Manipur officials say they have not received any official confirmation about the visit to Manipur itself.
Overall, authorities across Northeast India are making significant security arrangements ahead of the Prime Minister’s potential visit, emphasizing the importance of safety, security, and smooth transportation during this sensitive time.
