Monkey menace creates havoc in Uri

Uri, Sep 28: The presence of monkeys in the main town of Uri, located in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, has caused panic among the residents.

A delegation of locals told Greater Kashmir that they have been living under the threat of monkey attacks for many years.

“They have caused havoc in the area. Monkeys enter our houses and create problems by tearing clothes, damaging electrical wires, and stealing food, vegetables, and other essential commodities,” said Shafiq Ahmad, a local.

He noted that the problem worsens when these monkeys snatch items from their hands. “We are also afraid to let our children play outside our homes, while shopkeepers hesitate to keep goods outside their shops,” he added.

Tanveer Ahmad, another local resident, stated that the monkeys climb onto rooftops and bang on them throughout the night. “We are experiencing sleepless nights, and they have also caused damage to our property,” he said.

The residents living near the bus stand in Uri are the most affected.

Locals mentioned that although they have raised this issue with the relevant authorities multiple times, no action has been taken so far. “We urge the wildlife department officials to address this issue as a priority,” they said.

Intisar Suhail, Wildlife Warden of North Kashmir, told Greater Kashmir that he will send a team to the area. “Moreover, we will also create awareness about this issue,” he said.

He suggested that residents should dispose of waste properly and beat drums to scare the monkeys away.