Two Injured in bear attack in Mandi

Poonch, Aug 05: Two persons were injured in a bear attack in the Loran block of Tehsil Mandi, District Poonch, early Tuesday morning. The victims have been identified as Mohammad Rafi, son of Qamar Din (aged around 30), and Mohammad Saleem, son of Saleem Mir (aged around 25), both residents of Loran.According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred when the two men stepped out of their homes and were suddenly attacked by a wild bear. One of the victims sustained serious injuries, while the other suffered minor wounds. Locals rushed to the spot and managed to drive the animal away.The injured were initially taken to a nearby health facility for first aid. After preliminary treatment, both were shifted to the Sub-District Hospital Mandi. Upon further examination, doctors found that Mohammad Rafi had sustained multiple deep injuries and referred him to the District Hospital Poonch for advanced treatment.The incident has triggered panic in the area, especially among children and school-going students. Parents are reportedly hesitant to send their children to school, fearing further wildlife attacks.Angry residents expressed strong resentment toward the Wildlife Department, accusing it of negligence and failing to ensure public safety. “Wild animals are frequently entering human settlements, but the concerned department remains inactive. How many lives must be lost before action is taken?” a local resident said.People from the area have demanded that the administration issue strict instructions to the Wildlife Department to patrol the area, take measures to drive wild animals back into forest zones, and ensure the safety of the public.Furthermore, locals have appealed to higher authorities to provide financial support to the injured victims—both of whom work as laborers—and to initiate strict disciplinary action against negligent wildlife officials.