Srinagar: To save the world famous tourist spot Tosmaidan and to press for shifting of firing range from Tosmaidan meadow located in Central Kashmir District of Budgam and spread over 300 kanals, Tosmaidan Save Forum held a day long protest programme at picturesque Khag block, 21 kilometers from Tosmaidan.
Speaking on the occasion, Bashir Ahmad Beigh, Convener of the Forum said, It is a long held dream of people of Budgam and adjoining areas that to see the shifting of firing range from the area. We have been badly impacted by the presence of firing range as it is adversely affecting us both socially and economically.
Pertinently, both residents and experts have stated that the area has huge potential to be developed as a tourist destination once the firing range is shifted. It is worth mentioning here that Tosmaidan was taken over by Army on lease in 1964 for the purpose of conducting artillery drills in the area. It is learnt that the Army has approached the state government for extension of the lease as it has made a permanent base in the alpine meadow.
As a matter of fact, the validity of current lease expires on 19th April, 2014. Any move by the government to extend lease agreement of 3000 kanals of land in favor of the Army would be unacceptable and have disastrous consequences. We are peace loving people but any unfavorable decision can lead to massive public agitation.
While speaking on the occasion, MLA Beerwah Dr Shafi Wani said, We are not against Army or any other institution, but our simple message is that world famous tourist resort of Tosmaidan has to be saved and for this army has to shift its firing range. There are millions of kanals of barren land in other parts of country which can be used for the firing range purpose. Economical and environmental security of the vast area depends upon the development of Tosmaidan as world class tourist spot.
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