Thiruvananthapuram city police have made drone registration mandatory for all existing owners and prospective buyers within city limits, requiring them to submit both personal and device details to the police. The move is intended to improve public safety, curb unauthorised drone operations and strengthen security monitoring across the city.
According to the city police directive reported by the Times of India, owners must provide their name, address and phone number. They must also submit details of the drone, including its manufacturer, model and serial number.
The information can be submitted at the owner’s local police station or at the City Special Branch office functioning under the city police commissioner. The requirement applies to people who already operate drones as well as those planning to purchase one.
The police said the registration process would help authorities identify drone operators when required. The directive comes as drones are increasingly being used in the city for photography, videography, commercial work and personal purposes. The registration database is expected to give the police a local record of the devices and their owners operating within the city’s jurisdiction.
The requirement places responsibility on both recreational users and professional operators to disclose information about their equipment. Details such as the manufacturer, model and serial number can distinguish one device from another, while the owner’s contact information can help authorities establish who is responsible for a drone during an investigation or security-related inquiry.
The move also reflects the growing challenge faced by city administrations as privately operated aerial devices become more common in urban areas. Drones can be used for legitimate activities such as visual documentation and commercial production, but unauthorised operations can create security and public-safety concerns. The city police said the registry would support monitoring and identification rather than limiting the stated uses of drones.
Owners seeking assistance with the registration process can contact the City Special Branch at 9497975050 or 04712321399. The police have directed existing users and new purchasers to submit the required information through the designated police channels.
