70-year-old mauled by bears in Bokaro forest

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Divy Khare | TNN

Bokaro: A 70-year-old man sustained serious injuries after two bears attacked him in the forest stretch of Jhumra Hill on Sunday, prompting concern among local authorities and forest officials.

The victim, Badri Mahto, a resident of Pachmo Panchayat under Gomia block, entered the forest while searching for his missing cattle when two bears suddenly attacked him, leaving him severely injured. Locals later found him lying bleeding in the forest and alerted the forest department.

Forest guard Durga Hembram reached the spot and took Mahto to Gomia Community Health Centre. Forest department officer Sundeep Shinde said, “Doctors at the primary facility provided first aid before referring him to Sadar Hospital, Chas, in view of the severity of his injuries. Given his advanced age and critical condition, he was later shifted to RIMS, Ranchi, where he is currently undergoing specialised treatment.”

Officials said the govt will bear all treatment expenses. “A Quick Response Team (QRT) has also been placed on standby,” Shinde said. Forest officials added there was no evidence of abnormal or rabid behaviour, and no capture drive had begun.