**Tseri Firing Range Set to Close, Defence Minister Confirms**
The Tseri firing range is on track for closure, as confirmed by Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas during a recent interview with CyBC. While the minister did not provide a specific timeline for when operations would cease, he indicated that the “countdown” towards the firing range's closure has officially begun.
The announcement comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding the Kalo Chorio firing range, which has faced increased scrutiny from local residents. Palmas acknowledged that there is a strong demand from the surrounding communities for the Kalo Chorio facility to be relocated. However, he stated that such a move is not feasible at this time.
The Kalo Chorio firing range has been a focal point of concern, particularly following a wildfire that impacted the area. Residents have renewed their calls for the relocation of the facility, citing safety and environmental concerns. In response to these issues, the Defence Ministry has pledged to cover all damages resulting from the wildfire.
The recent discovery of two unexploded shells at the Kalo Chorio firing range during firefighting efforts in the nearby Ayia Anna area has heightened local apprehension. Palmas addressed these concerns, acknowledging that while it is understandable for residents to be worried, there has been some exaggeration regarding the situation. He emphasized that finding unexploded ordnance at firing ranges is not uncommon and reiterated the ministry's commitment to minimizing such incidents. The Defence Minister assured that measures are in place to ensure that unexploded ordnance is destroyed following each military exercise.
To enhance safety, Palmas highlighted that entry into firing ranges is strictly prohibited. He also mentioned that a decision has been made to establish a 24-hour guard post at the Kalo Chorio firing range to further secure the area.
The Kalo Chorio facility came under particular scrutiny after a significant fire broke out during a munitions destruction exercise in late July. The incident required the evacuation of nearby communities, including Ayia Anna and Psevdas, as the fire spread rapidly across approximately 120 hectares of land. The exercise involved personnel from the US military working alongside the National Guard’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, where controlled explosions were conducted to destroy warheads from RPG anti-tank rounds.
In addition to the discussions surrounding the firing ranges, Minister Palmas addressed the appointment of the National Guard’s new deputy chief. He stated that the matter will be presented to the cabinet for consideration, with a decision expected soon on whether the current deputy chief, Lieutenant General Neophytos Pachoulides, will retain his position or if one of two Greek Cypriot major generals, Charis Georgiou or Andreas Charalambous, will be appointed in his stead.
As the situation develops, the Defence Ministry continues to navigate the balance between military operations and community concerns, particularly in light of recent events that have raised awareness about safety and environmental issues surrounding firing ranges in Cyprus.