Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Police Commissionerate has issued an advisory declaring the Shree Lingaraj Temple area a strict no-drone zone ahead of the Mahashivaratri festival on February 15, 2026. The advisory comes in view of the massive congregation of devotees expected to visit the shrine under the Bhubaneswar Urban Police District (UPD).
The temple area has been designated as a “red zone” by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and authorities noted that many members of the public may not be aware of this classification. As part of extensive security arrangements to ensure public safety and maintain law and order during the festival, the flying of drones or any unmanned aerial vehicles within the designated area has been strictly prohibited without prior permission from the competent authority.
Police officials have warned that any violation of the advisory will invite appropriate legal action under relevant provisions of law. The Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar-Cuttack, in Memo No. 478/CP-IB dated February 14, 2026, urged citizens to cooperate with security measures and adhere to the restrictions for the smooth conduct of the festival.
Thousands of devotees are expected to throng the historic temple to observe Mahashivaratri, one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
