Udhampur, Nov. 25 -- Amid growing panic in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Panchari belt, the Wildlife Department has launched a coordinated response to tackle the surge in human-bear conflict following multiple attacks reported in the past week. Residents, living in fear, are demanding urgent intervention as sightings and confrontations intensify.

Speaking to ANI, Range Officer Mahesh Abrol confirmed that the threat has rapidly expanded. "Bear's terror has spread throughout the Panchari area... Three cases have been filed: one in Mir, one in Panchari, and one in Landhar," he said.

Officials believe the rise in encounters is linked to seasonal changes and the presence of newborn cubs. With winter setting in, vil...