Bear enters market area in Sonamarg, sparks panic among people

Ganderbal: Panic gripped the Sonamarg market in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district after a bear was spotted roaming through the busy commercial area during the night, prompting concern among residents over the increasing movement of wild animals into human habitations.

According to local sources, the bear wandered through the market, apparently in search of food, before disappearing into the nearby area. No injuries or damage were reported in the incident.

People attributed the recurring movement of bears and other wild animals to the accumulation of garbage in and around the market, saying improperly managed waste has become a major attraction for wildlife.

They urged the authorities to ensure regular garbage collection and scientific waste disposal to discourage wild animals from venturing into populated areas, warning that such encounters pose risks to both humans and wildlife.

Locals also appealed to the wildlife department to step up surveillance in vulnerable areas and take appropriate preventive measures to minimise human-wildlife conflict, particularly during the tourist season when Sonamarg witnesses a heavy influx of visitors. [KNT]