Warning Issued After Bear Attack in Tourist Destination

A black bear inflicted serious injuries on a man in the Hangrai region of Balakot tehsil, before returning to its natural habitat in the nearby alpine forests, according to a report from Tuesday. Balakot Wildlife Department's Sub-Divisional Officer Malik Amir informed journalists that the bear infiltrated the populated area from the alpine forest, which serves as the animal's natural habitat, and inflicted the injury on resident Taj Mohammad.

Taj Mohammad was transported to the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital in Balakot for medical treatment, where he received care and was administered the rabies vaccine. The wildlife department has since initiated awareness programs among indigenous communities and implemented measures to safeguard their safety. A team visited the area following the incident, engaging with residents and cautioning them to avoid agricultural fields in the vicinity of Nadi forest, which is inhabited by black bears and common leopards.

Malik Amir explained that black bears are drawn to maize crops and frequently intrude on agricultural fields in search of sustenance, posing a risk to people who come into contact with them. The bear is capable of attacking and injuring individuals who cross its path.