Mystery Death of 20 Sheep in Tral Triggers Alarm Among Shepherds.

PULWAMA: In a major setback for a local shepherd, 20 sheep died under suspected toxic conditions in Tral’s Kehlil area, raising fresh concerns about the safety of grazing fields in South Kashmir.The deceased animals belonged to Bilal Ahmad of Seer Tral and were being moved towards higher grazing pastures when they reportedly consumed grass suspected to be contaminated with pesticides. Shortly afterwards, the sheep began collapsing and all 20 eventually died.While the exact cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed, locals suspect toxic contamination or pesticide exposure. The incident has caused panic among shepherds and livestock owners who depend on seasonal grazing routes for their livelihood.Notably, this is the second such incident in recent months. In April, eight sheep died under similar suspicious circumstances in Budgam’s Kawoosa area, prompting a police investigation.The latest sheep deaths in Tral have renewed calls for a thorough probe into the use of chemicals in grazing zones. Locals and livestock owners have urged authorities to identify the cause of the deaths, ensure safer grazing areas and provide compensation to the affected shepherd.