Bears have reportedly been entering Gandabahali village under Sinapali police station limits in Odisha’s Nuapada district during the late-night hours, moving in groups and roaming along village roads, triggering widespread fear among residents. As per reports, three bears were seen moving through the village late at night, forcing locals to restrict movement after dusk.

The repeated sightings reportedly created panic in the village, with residents avoiding stepping out of their homes in the evenings and night. Locals said the presence of bears within human settlements over the past several days severely disrupted daily life. People are reportedly venturing out only during early morning hours due to safety concerns.

‘Woman Dies Following Bear Attack’

Tension escalated further following the alleged death of a woman in a bear attack last Friday. According to reports, the woman sustained critical injuries after being attacked by a bear and was rushed to hospital. She later died while undergoing treatment at the Nuapada District Headquarters Hospital. The incident heightened anxiety among villagers, particularly women and elderly residents.

Locals Seek Immediate Intervention

Residents urged the Forest Department to take urgent steps to ensure their safety. Some Forest Department personnel have reportedly been deployed in the village and are keeping a watch on the movement of the bears.

Bhismaraj Meher, a local villager, said, “For the past 10 to 15 days, bears have been spotted in and around the village. We are completely scared. They are entering human settlements and even coming close to homes. Recently, a woman was attacked by a bear and lost her life. If the government had acted earlier and focused on our safety, the situation might have been different.”

Another villager, Surekha Meher, said, “We are stepping out of our homes only during the morning hours because of fear. We welcome government support to ensure our safety.”

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The situation continues to be closely monitored as villagers await further action from the Forest Department, as sources said.