PNS
Daltonganj
The Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) has intensified its awareness campaign in Mahuadanr following a sharp rise in bear-human conflict this month, aiming to ensure the safety of both people and wildlife while preventing further confrontations.
According to PTR officials, four bear attack incidents have been reported in the Mahuadanr range within the past week. Although no fatalities have occurred, the incidents have raised serious concerns among forest authorities. Deputy Director (South Division) Kumar Ashish said forest teams have been instructed to strengthen public outreach in vulnerable villages bordering forest areas.
Forest personnel are travelling through villages in vehicles equipped with loudspeakers and displaying awareness posters carrying simple messages such as “Bhalu se Bacheyn” (Protect Yourself from Bears). The campaign avoids technical forest terminology, making the advisories easy for local residents to understand. Forester-in-Charge Gurudayal Singh said women and children regularly gather to listen to the announcements.
Officials acknowledged that villagers, particularly tribal communities, depend heavily on forests for firewood, fodder, mushrooms, jackfruit and other forest produce, making complete avoidance of forest visits impractical. Cattle grazing inside forests also remains a necessity due to the absence of village pastures.
PTR has advised residents to avoid venturing into forests during early morning and after sunset, refrain from travelling alone, and never make direct eye contact with wild animals, which may provoke aggressive behaviour. Women and children have been urged to avoid entering forests wherever possible.
Despite the risks, many residents say the forest remains an inseparable part of their lives, describing it as their “half home” and a vital source of livelihood.
