The local tribal shifted for comprehensive treatment to Ahmadabad

The brutal attack on a local Tribal by a bear on 20 July 2019 moved to Ahmedabad for treatment. 

Sloth Bear Conflicts on the Rise in Mount Abu: A Call for Practical Measures

In recent years, human-wildlife conflicts in Mount Abu have escalated, with sloth bear encounters becoming a pressing concern. Once elusive creatures of the forest, these bears are now straying into human habitation, leading to tragic and life-altering incidents. On July 20, 2019, a young tribal man was brutally attacked, resulting in disfigurement and the loss of an eye. The young tribal man is currently being treated at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, and this encounter has forever transformed his life, as well as the lives of many others.

These unsettling incidents shine a spotlight on a critical need for Mount Abu to develop comprehensive strategies aimed at minimizing human-bear conflicts. While eliminating these encounters may be unrealistic, practical solutions can reduce the risk.

One of the key factors contributing to these conflicts is the encroachment of human settlements into forested areas and the resulting disruption of the bear's natural habitat. As Mount Abu grows in popularity as a tourist destination, increased foot traffic, waste disposal issues, and habitat fragmentation drive sloth bears closer to populated zones in search of food.

For any meaningful change, a coordinated effort between local authorities, conservationists, and the public is essential. Implementing basic safety guidelines is a critical first step. Educating residents and tourists about bear behaviour, especially during the monsoon season, when they are more active, can save lives. Warning signs and awareness campaigns need to be visible in vulnerable areas, reminding people to avoid trekking at dawn or dusk, when bear activity peaks.

Proper waste management also plays a pivotal role in reducing bear visits to human settlements. Sloth bears are opportunistic feeders, and the improper disposal of food waste only invites them to urban areas. By establishing designated bear-proof garbage zones, both residents and businesses can reduce the likelihood of attracting bears.

Another important consideration is creating safe zones and wildlife corridors, ensuring that sloth bears have sufficient habitat away from human encroachment. This can involve designating areas that are off-limits for human activity, especially near known bear habitats, and implementing stricter regulations on new constructions that may disturb these sensitive areas.

Mount Abu stands at a crossroads. The region has two options: either deal with more conflicts between humans and bears or take proactive and practical steps to create a safer future for both wildlife and people. While sloth bears are an essential part of the local ecosystem, preserving their place within the landscape requires us to create a harmonious coexistence. With collective action, education, and practical steps, Mount Abu can protect its community while respecting the natural world that defines it.