Pulwama, Dec 3, KNT: A black bear was tranquilised by the Wildlife Department in Auligund village of Tral in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district after the animal was spotted near a graveyard, causing panic among locals.
Sources said the bear had taken shelter inside a cave located close to the burial ground, prompting people to alert authorities. Initially, the Wildlife team showed reluctance in moving immediately, as they were already engaged in another bear capture operation in Mandora village of Tral.
However, following pressure from locals and growing concern over safety, a Wildlife team was dispatched to Auligund and the bear was successfully tranquilised after a brief operation.
Officials said the animal was heavily built and had strayed into the area from nearby forested zones in search of food. ‘After medical observation, the bear will be released back into its natural habitat,’ said an official. [KNT]
