Adityanath issues shoot-on-sight order for man-eating wolves in UP's Bahraich
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a shoot-on-sight order for "man-eater" wolves in Bahraich district in response to the continued attacks since March. These attacks have resulted in nine deaths, including eight children, and left 20 others injured. The forest department has initiated an operation to capture the animals, and has captured four wolves so far. Efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining two wolves, according to reports.
Recent attack and medical response
The most recent attack took place on Monday night when a five-year-old girl was mauled by a wolf at her home. The girl is currently receiving treatment at the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Mahasi, along with two others injured in the same incident. Dr Ashish Verma, Superintendent of the Mahasi CHC, confirmed that a total of 34 people have been injured in these attacks since March.
'Operation Bhediya' launched to track down wolves
The Uttar Pradesh Police and Forest Department have initiated "Operation Bhediya" to locate and capture the wolves. The operation aims to capture these wolves using thermal imaging drones. However, due to their constant movement, forest officials have resorted to using colorful dolls soaked in children's urine as bait. These dolls are placed near riverbanks and dens frequented by the wolves. The area has been divided into seven zones for effective monitoring by specialized teams comprising both forest and police personnel.
'Shoot only if rescue efforts fail...': Adityanath
During a review meeting, CM Adityanath said that shooting the animals should be considered only if rescue efforts fail. He added that there should be planned coordination among various departments and raising public awareness about these incidents for their own safety. The chief minister also ordered an analysis of the underlying causes of this increased man-animal conflict.
35 villages living in fear
The wolf attacks have disrupted normal life in Mahasi, with over 25,000 residents across 35 villages living in fear. Meanwhile, villagers have formed teams to patrol their communities with sticks and firearms. Authorities are using loudspeakers mounted on vehicles to advise residents to stay indoors and lock their doors at night.
