The Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA) has taken a significant step towards realising its vision of a world-class shooting facility in the city. The authority has officially invited bids from agencies to construct a state-of-the-art shooting range in Sector 32 on a design, engineering, procurement, and construction basis.
Project Scope and Revised Plans
With an estimated project cost of Rs 134 crore, the ambitious facility is slated for completion within two years of the work allotment. However, the initial blueprint has seen a key modification. The original plan included a hostel for athletes, but this component has been deferred for the time being due to land constraints.
Currently, only 9.20 acres of land are available for the main range complex. An additional 5 acres required for the hostel will be procured later from the Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP). A PMDA official clarified the decision, stating, "There was some land issue for the hostel. Since there are ample places to stay in Panchkula, the hostel project was deferred."
World-Class Facility Features
The shooting range complex is designed to be a cutting-edge sporting venue. The structure will be a ground-plus-two-floor building with specific ranges allocated across levels:
- Ground Floor: Will house 50m, 25m, and final shooting ranges.
- First Floor: Will be dedicated to a 10m shooting range.
The facility will be equipped with advanced technological systems, including automatic electronic target firing, scoring, data acquisition, and ranking. These features are aimed at providing athletes with a professional and competitive environment.
Adherence to International Standards
To ensure the facility meets global benchmarks, the PMDA undertook thorough consultations. The authority sought expertise from the Sports Authority of India (SAI), whose officials conducted a site visit to provide guidance.
Furthermore, PMDA officials themselves visited the renowned Dr Karni Singh Shooting Ranges in New Delhi to study best practices before finalising the technical specifications and financial estimates for the Panchkula project. This meticulous planning underscores the goal of creating a venue fit for top-tier events. "The facility will be capable of hosting international competitions. Accommodation for participants will also be developed," confirmed an official, highlighting the long-term vision for the complex.
The initiation of the bidding process marks a concrete move towards enhancing Panchkula's sports infrastructure and positioning it as a potential hub for national and international shooting sports.
