Urgent Measures Needed to Address Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Bharmour

Increasing Bear Attacks in Bharmour

Mahinder Patyal
Bharmour

A recent bear attack in the Khani Panchayat area of Bharmour has heightened concerns about human-wildlife conflicts, following a similar incident just weeks prior.

On Monday at approximately 12:30 p.m., Guddi Devi (65), the spouse of Karam Chand, was attacked by a bear while she was walking to nearby homes in her village of Khalaili. The unexpected attack resulted in serious injuries, prompting locals to rush her to the Civil Hospital in Bharmour for initial treatment before transferring her to Chamba Medical College Hospital.

Dr. Dipesh Kumar, the Block Medical Officer for Bharmour, confirmed that the victim is now at Chamba Medical College and is in stable condition, although she continues to receive medical care.

This incident marks the second bear attack on women in this panchayat within a month, and alarmingly, seven individuals have died from bear attacks in the region, instilling fear among the local population.

The local Panchayat Pradhan has formally requested the Bharmour administration to take immediate action to address this escalating threat.

In response, Dr. Janak Raj, the MLA for the Bharmour–Pangi constituency, has urged the administration and the Wildlife Department to implement urgent preventive strategies. He emphasized the necessity of installing solar fencing around residential areas to reduce the frequency of conflicts between villagers and wildlife. Dr. Raj highlighted that such measures are crucial for protecting lives and preventing further incidents.

Residents and Panchayat representatives have voiced their concerns, calling on authorities to act promptly to ensure the safety of the tribal community.