Man injured in Bear attack in Barsoo Awantipora
Pulwama: Panic gripped the Barsoo area of Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district after a local resident was grievously injured in a bear attack on Thursday morning.
According to locals, the victim, identified as Ghulam Hassan Bhat, was attacked by a wild bear while he was working in his orchard near the forested area.
He sustained multiple injuries on his face and limbs and was immediately rushed to the hospital where he is undergoing treatment.
The appearance of the bear has caused fear among residents of Barsoo and adjoining villages.
People allege that wild animals have been frequently straying into residential due to lack of proper wildlife monitoring.
“We have been pleading with the authorities to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents, but no serious action has been taken so far,” they alleged.
“Today, a man was almost killed. Who will be responsible if someone dies next?” said a visibly angry local.
He said that many such incidents have come to fore in the area but nothing is being done as of now.
The villagers are now demanding immediate intervention from the Wildlife Department to capture the bear and ensure the safety of residents.
They also called for increased patrolling and preventive measures, including installation of warning systems and cages at vulnerable spots.
A Wildlife Department official, when contacted, said, “Our team has been dispatched to the area to track the movement of the animal. We are taking all necessary steps to trap the bear and relocate it to a safer zone.”
Authorities have urged residents to avoid venturing into orchards or forested areas alone and to inform the Wildlife Department in case of any fresh sightings.
They also requested locals to take necessary precautions and co-operate with the department.
