‘No drone zone’ imposed around IOCL-Bongaigaon Refinery complex and township

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 5, 2024

To bolster security measures, Chirang District Commissioner Jatin Bora has declared a 2-kilometre radius surrounding the IOCL-Bongaigaon Refinery complex and its township in Dhaligaon as a ‘no drone zone.’

The directive comes in response to a formal request by the Executive Director and Refinery Head of IOCL-Bongaigaon Refinery, who highlighted concerns about potential aerial threats.

The new security protocol prohibits the following within the designated zone – drones, paragliders, powered hang gliders, microlight aircraft, hot air balloons, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and other non-conventional aerial objects.

The measure aims to safeguard the refinery and its surrounding township against risks, including those posed by anti-national elements. Security forces deployed in the area have been granted authority to take decisive actions, including shooting down any unauthorized aerial objects that violate the directive.

The ‘no drone zone’ directive is in immediate effect and will remain active until further notice.

Residents, airspace users, and stakeholders are urged to strictly follow this directive. Collective compliance will help maintain the region’s safety and security.