Ban on Night Camping in Deosai National Park Following Bear Attack on Quratul Ain Baloch

On September 4, 2025, renowned Pakistani singer Quratul Ain Baloch, commonly known as QB, was injured in a bear attack while camping in Deosai National Park, located in Gilgit-Baltistan. The incident occurred near the Bara Pani area, a popular tourist destination known for its wildlife, including Himalayan brown bears. Baloch sustained injuries to both arms from the bear's claws and teeth. She was promptly rescued by her companions, including her driver Muhammad Ibrahim Jhon and photographer Shahbaz, who intervened to fend off the bear. After receiving first aid at the scene, she was transported to the Regional Headquarters Hospital in Skardu for emergency treatment. Medical officials confirmed that her injuries were serious but not life-threatening, and she has since been discharged in stable condition.

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In response to the attack, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has imposed a ban on night-time camping in Deosai National Park for the months of September and October 2025. Regional Forest Officer Nooruddin stated that the ban aims to prevent potential conflicts between wildlife and humans, particularly during a season when bear activity is heightened. Only government-approved accommodations will be permitted during this period. Faizullah Faraq, a spokesperson for the provincial government, emphasized that the decision was made in the interest of public safety, stating, “No tourist or traveler will be allowed to camp in Deosai henceforth.”

Gilgit-Baltistan Bans Night Camping in Deosai Following Bear Attack

The attack on Baloch has raised significant concerns regarding wildlife safety in tourist areas like Deosai National Park, which is home to an endangered population of Himalayan brown bears. Recent surveys estimate that only 75 to 80 individuals remain in the wild, making their conservation critical. Experts suggest that the bear's behavior may have been influenced by food odors from the campsite, as brown bears have a strong sense of smell. Dr. Shoaib Hameed, a wildlife researcher, noted that such attacks are rare, but heightened bear activity during this time of year, particularly as bears prepare for hibernation, can increase the risk of encounters.

Singer Quratulain Baloch injured in brown bear attack at Deosai park

Following the incident, stakeholders in the tourism sector have called for stricter safety regulations to protect both visitors and wildlife. There is a growing consensus that tourists should be educated on proper camping practices, such as avoiding cooking in the open and camping only in designated areas. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for improved wildlife management strategies in Gilgit-Baltistan to prevent future conflicts.

Deosai Camping Banned After Bear Attack on Famous Pakistani Singer Quratul Ain Baloch-QB

• “No tourist or traveler will be allowed to camp in Deosai henceforth,” — Faizullah Faraq, Spokesperson for the Gilgit-Baltistan Government

Gilgit-Baltistan Bans Night Camping in Deosai Following Bear Attack

• “Brown bears have a very strong sense of smell, so it’s possible that cooking at the camp attracted the animal,” — Dr. Shoaib Hameed, Senior Program Manager at the Snow Leopard Foundation

From Attack to Recovery: Explaining QB’s Scary Encounter with a Brown Bear in Deosai

• “Thankfully, her tests came out clear, and she is now out of danger,” — Sajjad Ahmad Khan, District Forest Officer, Skardu

From Attack to Recovery: Explaining QB’s Scary Encounter with a Brown Bear in Deosai

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and respect for wildlife in natural habitats, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.

Singer Quratulain Baloch injured in brown bear attack at Deosai park