The Kashmir Dialogues
Pulwama, Sep 16, KNT: A wild bear attack in Zantrag village of Khrew area in Pulwama district on Tuesday left three people injured, triggering panic among residents.
Officials said the incident occurred when the wild animal strayed into the village and attacked locals. The injured have been identified as 35-year-old Afroza Bano, wife of Ghulam Hassan Lone of Bathen; 30-year-old Maimoona Bano, wife of Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat of Zantrag; and 35-year-old Mukhtar Ahmed Mir, son of Ghulam Mohammed of Zantrag.
The trio sustained injuries during the attack and was immediately shifted to SMHS Hospital Srinagar for advanced medical treatment. Hospital sources confirmed that all three are undergoing treatment and their condition is being closely monitored.
The sudden appearance of the bear sparked fear in the area, with villagers urging the Wildlife Department to intensify surveillance and take measures to prevent recurrence. Locals say wild animal incursions into residential areas have increased in recent past due to shrinking forest cover and human encroachment near habitats. [KNT]
Sheikh Sameer