In the Tomsk Region of the Russian Federation, mass gatherings and tourism have been restricted due to bear attacks
In Russia’s Tomsk Region, restrictions have been imposed on mass events, excursions, and tourist gatherings outside and on the outskirts of populated areas due to bears frequently approaching people.
The restrictions will remain in effect until at least November 1. City and district leaders are responsible for ensuring compliance.
Volodymyr Mazur instructed municipalities, in cooperation with the Department of Hunting and Fisheries, to coordinate efforts with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of local residents.
In addition, the governor instructed the regional government to consider declaring a state of heightened alert.
“Life is the most precious thing there is. Dear fellow residents, please keep this in mind when you go into the forest to pick mushrooms and berries,” said Volodymyr Mazur.
The decision by the Tomsk Region authorities was made following several fatal bear attacks in the region. On September 20, 2026, in the Kolpashevsky District, a bear killed two men who had gone into the forest to search for a missing cow and each other. The animal was subsequently killed.
According to data cited by TASS, 14 people have been killed in bear attacks in Russia since the beginning of 2026. Wild animals have been observed venturing into populated areas in 41 regions of the country.
According to Russian media reports, the most serious situation has arisen in Eastern Siberia, where bears have been spotted near schools, military bases, and residential buildings.
In addition to the Tomsk Region, fatalities this year have been recorded, in particular, in Altai, the Krasnoyarsk Krai, the Irkutsk Region, Buryatia, and Kamchatka.
This was reported by the region’s governor, Vladimir Mazur.
In Russia, at least 10 people have died in bear attacks since the beginning of 2026. The highest number of fatalities has been recorded in Siberia, and on September 16 alone, in the Irkutsk region, a bear killed two men who had gone into the forest to pick berries.
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