Defence Ministry approves setting up of 17 baffle firing range

The Defence Ministry has approved construction of 17 new firing ranges in select military stations at a cost of Rs 238 crore.

Officials said seven new ranges will be set up under Southern Command, three in areas under Eastern Command, two in Northern Command and one each in South Western and Central Commands.

"The Ministry has given a go ahead for construction of 17 new baffle firing ranges at an approximate cost of Rs 238 crore," a senior official said.

At present, 60 firing ranges are operational across the country.

Baffle firing ranges are covered shooting practice areas which prevent possible accidents due to stray bullets.

The official said the possibility of such mishap has increased many folds in recent times due to growth of civilian population around the cantonments.