Bears threaten safety, livelihoods in Lahaul

Dipender Manta

Mandi, July 25

Already facing challenges of an unpredictable weather and difficult terrain, villagers in Lahaul Valley have been encountering another trouble of late — that of wild bears.

Effort to address the menace

We are aware of the problems bears are causing to residents. Efforts are under way to trap and relocate the wild animals responsibly. — Forest Department spokesperson

For farmers across several villages in the valley, bears have become a major threat to their livelihoods, causing extensive damage to crops and posing safety concerns for residents. Pyukar, Karadang, Jobrang, Rashal and Goshal villages have reported frequent incursions by bears into fields, resulting in damage to orchards and vegetable crops.

The presence of bears has been particularly detrimental to crops during the harvest season, with reports of the wild animlas raiding apple and cherry orchards, and damaging pea and cauliflower crops.

The farmers and residents have expressed fear over the potential escalation of bear encounters, highlighting concerns about their night visits to the fields when bears pose a threat to personal safety.

This fear has prompted calls for immediate help from the Forest Department and local administration to address the menace effectively.

“The bears have been coming close to our homes and fields. They are not just damaging crops, but also creating a sense of insecurity, especially at night,” remarked Roshan, a resident from Kardang panchayat.

The villagers have urged the authorities to take a swift action to capture and relocate the bears to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife. They emphasised the need for proactive measures to prevent further economic losses and mitigate the risks associated with human-wildlife conflict in the region.

“The Forest Department needs to step up patrolling and deploy effective methods to deter bears from entering residential areas and farms,” stated Kunga Bodh, a member of Zila Parishad. “We hope that immediate steps will be taken before more damage occurs.”

Officials from the Forest Department have acknowledged the severity of the issue and assured the villagers of prompt action. “We are aware of the problem and are coordinating with the local authorities to address it,” said a spokesperson of the Forest Department. “Efforts are under way to trap and relocate the bears responsibly.”