Wild boars cause panic, crop damage in Ganderbal villages

Ganderbal, Aug 3: Fear and concern have gripped several villages in Gund tehsil of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district after wild boars were reportedly sighted in the area over the last few weeks. Residents from Fraw, Gund, Rayil, and Gagangir have raised alarm over the unusual presence of these animals, which they say has caused widespread damage to standing maize crops.Locals said that wild boar, believed to have strayed down from forested hills, were first seen in the maize and other agricultural fields where they have ravaged large patches of cultivation. Farmers say they now fear going to their fields, particularly during early morning or evening hours. “This is the first time in living memory that wild boar have been seen in our area. Their sudden appearance has shocked everyone,” said a farmer from Rayil. “They come during the night and destroy our maize crops. Many of us depend solely on these fields for our livelihood.”Another local from Gund echoed the concerns. “Not only have these animals damaged our crops, but their presence has also caused fear among the people. Children and the elderly are scared to step out after dusk,” he said.Locals are urging the Wildlife Department and district administration to intervene swiftly to avoid further crop loss and possible attacks. “We appeal to the authorities to deploy teams to track and safely capture or drive away these wild boars,” said a resident of Fraw. “If this is not addressed now, the problem could become much worse in the coming weeks.”Experts believe the wild boars may have ventured into human settlements in search of food, possibly due to shrinking natural habitat or changes in the ecosystem.