Chennai to restrict drone flights on October 11 for Narendra Modi’s visit

Chennai police have designated special no-fly zones for October 11, when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the city. The restrictions cover areas around event venues and his travel routes.

The designated areas surround Meenambakkam, Guindy, Kotturpuram, Porur and Nandambakkam. Flying drones and other unmanned aerial objects there will be prohibited, with an exception for activities authorised under government arrangements. Police announced the measures in a press release on Friday, October 9.

The special zones come alongside broader restrictions already operating within Greater Chennai Police jurisdiction. From August 18 to October 16, an existing order prohibits drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, paragliders, paramotors, hang gliders and hot-air balloons. The restrictions for the visit therefore supplement a longer-running order rather than replace it.

The New Indian Express independently reported the same designated areas and Sunday restriction. The prime minister’s October 11 visit has also been confirmed in an official Press Information Bureau announcement. For residents and drone operators, both layers of restrictions matter: the specific zones along the visit routes and the existing rules across the city police jurisdiction.