PANAJI/VASCO
The Naval authorities in Goa have warned locals, both individuals as well as civil authorities, against the practice of flying drones in close proximity to their installations in Goa saying they reserve their right to neutralise these devices and even prosecute those responsible.
In a statement issued on Monday the Indian Navy said flying drones or unmanned UAVs within three-kilometre radius of their installations would lead to either confiscation or destruction of the devices.
“An area of three kilometres from the perimeter of naval installations in Goa is designated as ‘No Fly Zone’. All individuals and civil agencies are prohibited from flying any aerial drones within these zones for any reason,” the statement issued by the Indian Navy said.
“The Indian Navy reserves the right to confiscate or destroy any aerial drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) found flying within these areas without prior approval. Operators found violating these guidelines will be liable for prosecution under the relevant provisions of law,” the statement added.
“Utilization of drones is governed by guidelines issued by Ministry of Home Affairs as amended from time to time. Approval from the Director General Civil Aviation (DGCA) is to be obtained through the Digi Sky website (www.dgca.nic.in), and a copy of the approval letter is to be submitted to Headquarters Goa Naval Area or the concerned Naval station at least a week before the scheduled flying operation,” it stated.
Naval installations include three bases in Mormugao, including the INS Hansa which operates Goa’s sole Dabolim airport, and the Naval school at Verem.
