Sundargarh: A man was critically injured after being attacked by wild bears in Sundargarh district on Tuesday morning, in an incident that highlights the growing human-wildlife conflict in forested regions of the state.
The incident occurred in Choradhara village under Koida block in the Bonai subdivision, where the victim, identified as 51-year-old Ram Munda, had gone to a nearby forest to collect mahua flowers along with another villager, Selai Munda (56), around 9 AM.
According to reports, the two men were foraging in the forest when they were suddenly confronted by two bears. The animals attacked Ram Munda, inflicting severe injuries. In a display of presence of mind and courage, Selai Munda intervened by breaking a tree branch and striking the bears, forcing them to retreat into the forest.
Selai Munda then managed to rescue the injured man and brought him back to the village. Ram Munda was subsequently rushed to the Bonai Sub-Divisional Hospital in a 108 ambulance. Given the severity of his injuries, he was later referred to the Rourkela Government Hospital for advanced treatment. His condition is reported to be critical.
Forest officials are yet to comment on the incident. The attack has once again raised concerns over the safety of villagers who frequently enter forest areas for livelihood activities such as collecting minor forest produce.
