Defence  Ministry has given a go-ahead sanction for construction of 17 new baffle firing ranges in Military Stations, Cantonments and Training Establishments at the cost of around 238 crores rupees.

These firing ranges will be in addition to the 60 similar firing ranges existing all over the country. This will add seven ranges to  Southern Command, three to  Eastern Command, two to  Northern Command, one each to  South Western and Central Commands.

The one at Central Command is proposed for the Officers Training Academy, Gaya.  The proposed baffle shooting ranges can facilitate firing from 300 to 500 meters.

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

According to an official release, the possibility of such mishap has increased many folds in recent times due to the growth of civilian population around the cantonments.

To prevent such casualties without affecting the training requirements of the Armed Forces,  the Ministry has taken the decision.