Kutch’s ‘Road to Heaven’ declared no-drone zone

Rajkot: Tourists and visitors heading to Kutch's iconic "Road to Heaven" — the stunning 30km stretch linking Khavda to Dholavira — will no longer be allowed to fly drones, as the Kutch Forest Department has enforced a strict no-drone zone across the area, citing concerns over wildlife protection and national security. Officials have warned that any violation will attract legal action.The scenic route passes through the ecologically sensitive Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, where authorities say drone activity disrupts wildlife and disturbs their natural behaviour. The range forest officer of the Rapar North Wildlife Range has clarified that flying drones in the region amounts to a violation of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.Adding to the restrictions, the stretch lies close to Border Security Force (BSF) installations, prompting its designation as a "No Drone Zone" on security grounds.To ensure compliance, the forest department has installed signboards across the 30km Khavda–Dholavira route and has appealed to tourists to respect the rules in the interest of safety and conservation.Often described as a "heavenly experience," the route winds through the vast expanse of the Great Rann of Kutch, offering surreal views of shimmering salt flats and the stark beauty of the semi-arid desert. A major draw during the Rann Utsav season, the stretch sees a steady stream of visitors who pause to capture its landscapes on mobile phones. However, officials emphasised that preserving the fragile ecosystem and ensuring security must take precedence over recreational photography.
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