Permission needed to fly drones over heritage sites but no one cares and so, drones fill city sky this Dasara…

Mysuru: Dasara is around the corner and the elephants have begun their daily practice for the Jumboo Savari on city roads, drawing crowds eager to watch the majestic animals. However, unauthorised drone flights to capture footage of the elephants for social media have emerged as a serious concern.

With drones flying freely over the elephant practice routes and the Mysore Palace, questions are being raised over the ability of the District Administration and Police to regulate their use.

Equipped with high-resolution cameras, drones can capture striking aerial footage from considerable heights, making them popular among social media content creators.

But flying drones close to elephants comes with huge risks. The animals move in a steady rhythm along the roads, often with crowds standing just a metre or two away. The buzzing sound of drones can disturb elephants, potentially triggering an unpredictable reaction in a crowded area.

While the Mysore Palace remains the focal point, drones have also been spotted near Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple, K.R. Circle, Dodda Gadiyara (Big Clock Tower), Chikka Gadiyara (Dufferin Clock Tower), D. Devaraj Urs Road and the Old DC’s Office.

The Palace and its surrounding areas have been designated restricted zones for security reasons and operating a drone in these areas requires permission from the Police. Despite this, drone operators have reportedly been flying them without authorisation. 

2025 ban on drones

Last year, District Administration prohibited drone operations in and around Mysore Palace, declaring the area a Yellow Zone under strict surveillance. The move followed several instances of reckless drone use during major events, including Dasara and jumbo training.

Officials had warned that violators would face legal action, including seizure of drones and fines, under the Indian Aircraft Act, 1934 and Drone Rules, 2021.

No permission issued: DCP

The Police Department has clarified that no official permission has been issued to anyone to operate drones for filming elephant training sessions or any other event.

Speaking to Star of Mysore this morning, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Dr. Harsha Priyamvada said, drone operations were subject to strict regulations and operators must apply through the designated Government portal. Permissions are granted only after applications are thoroughly scrutinised.

Responding to concerns over unauthorised drone footage of elephant practice sessions being circulated on social media, she confirmed that the Police Department had neither received nor approved any requests for aerial filming in the restricted areas.

DCP Priyamvada said, an inquiry had been initiated to trace the source of the drone footage and appropriate action would be taken against those operating drones without valid permission.