Army today said it was confident that Jammu and Kashmir government would reach a decision soon on the extension of lease of the Tosamaidan firing range in Budgam district keeping in mind the people's interest and the security of the country.
"The government has ordered a high-level committee to consider all aspects of the issue (extension of lease) including further scope for firing exercises and other alternative in place of this area.
"I am very confident that they will take a decision which is in the best interest of the people and the security of the nation," General Officer Commanding of Srinagar-based 15 Corps Lt Gen Subrata Saha told reporters here.
Saha said for the security of the country, it was necessary to continue the firing practice in an almost identical terrain.
"Be it this place or an alternative place, it is for the government to consider and we are hopeful of reaching a solution soon," he said.
The Army commander was in this picturesque central Kashmir meadow, 60 kms from Srinagar, to launch 'Operation Fallah (Welfare)' aimed at clearing the area of any unexploded shells which have claimed 63 lives so far.
Villagers living near the firing range have been demanding that the state government should not extend the lease to Army for Tosamaidan.
Tosamaidan, a vast expanse of lush green meadows in Budgam, was given on lease to Army in 1954 for use as artillery firing practice range. The lease was extended for 10 years in 2004 and ended on April 18 this year.
According to the protesters, several persons have been killed due to shells fired from the firing range over the years.
NC leader Farooq Abdullah had said in an election rally in Khansahib area of Badgam district, that the state government would not extend the lease.
