Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 2: A week-long hunt to capture a wild bear in Srinagar has yet to succeed. The unknown whereabouts of the wild bear has left residents of several areas in a state of fear.
The wild bear was initially spotted on November-26 near the University of Kashmir campus and later near the SKIMS hospital premises and other places.
“Officials have been chasing the bear for over a week. At night, more than 20 personnel from the Wildlife Department are tracking it using tranquilizers, cages, night-vision equipment and other tools,” said a Wildlife Department official.
He said, “During the day, over 10 staff members of the department are continuing the hunt. They are committed to capturing the animal safely.”
The bear was earlier chased by a pack of stray dogs who fenced outside the girls’ hostel at KU in Naseem Bagh. CCTV footage later showed it entering a residence in Nigeen.
On Monday evening, the wild bear was spotted inside SKIMS premises.
Moreover, the SKIMS and KU authorities have urged the students, staff and residents to remain vigilant, avoid isolated areas and report any unusual sightings immediately. “The safety of both people and the bear is our priority,” the official added.
It is important to mention that despite over a week of relentless efforts the bear remains untraced that highlights the challenges of urban wildlife management in Srinagar.
