OOTY : Panic prevailed for nearly eight hours in the market and commercial area of this tourist town Wednesday following the appearance of a male bear. It was first noticed sitting atop a side-wall around 5.30 am by a resident who informed the neighbours, police said.

Its presence forced people to remain indoors even as vehicles in the commercial areas moved cautiously, bringing normal business to a standstill.

Forest department officials and veterinarian Manoharan first attempted tp drive away the bear. Failing this, Manoharan tranquilised it with a dart gun. The officials then caught it, much to the relief of the people.

Forest department sources said that bear might have strayed into the town in search of food and water as there was acute shortage of water in the jungles.

The bear will be taken and released into Mudumalai forest reserve..