Three women were injured, one critically, in a bear attack that took place in the Shamer and Gadar hamlets of the Mandi belt in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred late Tuesday evening, prompting immediate response from local authorities and wildlife officials.
Details of the Incident
The attack happened when the women were collecting firewood near the forest edge. A bear suddenly emerged and attacked them before fleeing into the woods. Villagers rushed to the spot and alerted the police and forest department. The injured women were taken to a nearby hospital, where one was later referred to a higher medical facility due to the severity of her injuries.
Local officials confirmed that the women are receiving medical treatment and that efforts are underway to track the bear. Forest department teams have been deployed to the area to prevent further incidents.
Rising Human-Wildlife Conflict
This incident highlights the increasing instances of human-wildlife conflict in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in border districts like Poonch. Encroachment into forest areas and habitat loss have led to more frequent encounters between humans and wild animals. Bears, leopards, and other wildlife often venture into human settlements in search of food.
Experts suggest that better management of forest boundaries, awareness campaigns, and quick response mechanisms can help mitigate such conflicts. The forest department has urged villagers to avoid venturing into forest areas alone, especially during dusk and dawn when wildlife is most active.
Response from Authorities
Deputy Commissioner Poonch visited the injured in the hospital and assured all necessary medical assistance. He directed the forest department to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of the villagers. A compensation package for the victims is also being processed under the state's wildlife conflict relief scheme.
Wildlife officials have set up camera traps and patrols in the area to locate the bear. They have advised residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious animal activity immediately.
