Ayodhya firing range 'unsafe' amid airport construction

THE Indian Army's field firing range in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, has been rendered "unsafe" due to the construction of the Ayodhya airport, forcing the force to scout for land elsewhere.

- MAYANK SINGH

A senior Army officer said, "In the case of Ayodhya range, we all know that a new airport has come up and this range is in the flight path of aircraft." It would become unsafe, he said, to continue utilising that range.

In such cases, we seek alternative location and carry out firing drills." "You are aware that the Army needs field firing ranges essentially to carry out trials of heavy weapons, including tanks and infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVS). We continue to use the ranges which are available. At the same time, the development of the country is also important," The source added.