Bear attacks man in Awantipora; leopard trapped in Budgam

Bilal Habib

PAMPORE, August 13: A 50-year-old man was seriously injured after being attacked by a wild bear in the Barsoo area of Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Thursday.

The injured man has been identified as Ghulam Nabi Bhat, son of Abdul Ahad Bhat, a resident of Dadsara, Tral.

Officials told Kashmir Convener that Bhat sustained serious injuries in the attack and was initially shifted to a nearby hospital. He was later referred to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, for specialised treatment.

Following the incident, a team of the Wildlife Department, Range Khrew Pampore, reached the area and launched a search operation to locate and capture the bear.

Officials said the bear was hiding in paddy fields in the Barsoo area, prompting the department to intensify its search and rescue operation. People have been advised to remain cautious and avoid venturing into the area until the animal is safely captured.

Third leopard captured in Budgam in five days

Meanwhile, the Wildlife Protection Department’s Wetlands Division captured another leopard from the Larkipora area of Budgam district late Wednesday night following sustained surveillance and efforts by its field staff.

The department had installed trap cages at identified locations after receiving repeated reports of leopard movement in and around the area.

Officials said it was the third leopard captured in Larkipora in the past five days.

Earlier on Sunday, two leopards were captured in a single cage in the same area by the Wildlife Protection Department, Wetlands Division.

Local residents appreciated the department’s prompt intervention and efforts to address the recurring movement of wild animals in the area.