Bears stray into Odisha town, create panic among locals

Keonjhar: Fear gripped local residents after two bears strayed into Padampur town in Keonjhar district of Odisha on Thursday night.

As per reports, two bears, one male and another female, were spotted in search of food in Gobardhan area in Padampur town of Keonjhar Sadar block. However, the next day, one of them was seen entering a nursery at Banajodi Chhak. It is believed to have lost its way after the duo drifted apart and made its way through the Gobardhan cashew forest and Jogimath field.

Villagers panicked on seeing the bear entering the nursery, and a large crowd gathered. Meanwhile, some of them informed the Forest department. Palaaspanga forester Krusnachandra Das, Padampur Meganursery forester Jyotsnarani Behera and other personnel from Keonjhar forest department arrived at the spot.

While they spread public awareness and cautioned the villagers to ensure their safety, efforts to rescue the bear from the nursery was ongoing till reports last came in.

Further details are awaited.