Jammu: A pregnant black bear weighing over 300 kilograms was rescued from a fast-flowing mountain stream in the Chatroo area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district early Sunday, officials said.
The challenging rescue operation, carried out by the Wildlife Protection Department, lasted 48 hours before the animal was safely released back into its natural habitat.
According to Range Officer Shafer Iqbal, villagers first spotted the massive bear trapped in the strong currents of the Dangar Nullah on Friday. “Upon receiving the information, a rescue team was immediately mobilized,” Iqbal said.
He added that the local Army unit and residents actively assisted in the operation. “The bear was extremely large and later found to be pregnant. To ensure her safety, the team avoided using tranquilizers during the rescue,” he explained.
In a separate incident, the department also rescued a bear with two cubs spotted in the Halyan forest of Bhaderwah area in Doda district, safely guiding them back into the woods.
Officials urged the public to remain aware and cooperate with authorities to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife, stressing the importance of protecting forest habitats and wildlife corridors.
