Operation Bhediya: 4 killer wolves captured after 8 villagers killed
In response to a series of fatal wolf attacks in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, the district forest department has launched "Operation Bhediya." The operation aims to capture the pack of wolves that killed eight people and injured at least 15 others. So far, four wolves have been captured, while two remain at large. The most recent capture was made on Thursday, and the wolf was relocated to a shelter home.
Advanced technology aids in wolf capture
"For a long time there was the terror of wolves here... Today we have caught a wolf... We will transfer it to the zoo... So far 4 wolves have been caught. There are 2 wolves left, preparations are being made to catch them," Renu Singh (Chief Forest Conservator Central Zone) told ANI. The Bahraich forest department is utilizing advanced technology such as drone cameras and thermal mapping to track and capture the wolves.
Government officials assure public safety amid wolf attacks
As per an official statement, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is closely monitoring the operation, while Forest Minister Arun Saxena visited the affected district on Wednesday to meet with victims' families. Saxena assured residents that the Forest Department is working diligently to capture the wolves and ensure public safety. He advised people to stay indoors at night, keep children inside, and securely lock their doors for safety against potential wolf attacks.
Ex-gratia announced for victims' families, efforts to capture wolves continue
Furthermore, the district administration has announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹5 lakh each to the kin of four deceased individuals. Payments to the families of the remaining victims will be processed soon. Meanwhile, District Magistrate Monika Rani stated that doors are being installed in homes that lack them, and night patrols are being conducted in all villages. She added that ASHA workers have been tasked with raising awareness among residents about the ongoing wolf threat.
