A surge in wolf attacks in Bahraich district, Uttar Pradesh, has prompted Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to issue a shoot-at-sight order as a last resort. This decision comes after a five-year-old girl was mauled by a wolf while sleeping at her home on Monday night. Thankfully, she was saved by her family and neighbors. The incident marked the first time a wolf had entered the village, according to the girl’s relatives.
The girl is currently receiving treatment at the Mahasi Community Health Centre (CHC), alongside two other victims of the attacks. The CHC superintendent, Dr. Ashish Verma, reported that 34 people have been injured in these attacks, with two individuals being transferred to the Bahraich District Hospital in stable condition. Dr. Verma assured that the CHC is well-equipped to handle such emergencies, with ample supplies of Anti-Rabies Vaccines (ARVs) and Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) available.
The alarming increase in wolf attacks has resulted in 10 deaths, predominantly among children under eight years old, since March 18th. These incidents have sparked a joint effort between the Forest Department and Uttar Pradesh Police to track down the wolves responsible. They have launched ‘Operation Bhediya’, which has already led to the capture of four wolves, while the search continues for the remaining two. The affected area has been divided into seven zones under constant surveillance by authorities.
In response to the escalating situation, CM Adityanath ordered senior forest officials to personally oversee rescue efforts in the affected districts. He held a review meeting, emphasizing that shooting the animals should be considered only if rescue attempts fail. He also stressed the importance of coordinating efforts between the forest department, police, local administration, panchayat, and revenue departments, and raising public awareness about safety precautions.
The CM highlighted the need for a comprehensive analysis of the underlying causes of the increased man-animal conflict. This incident underscores the growing challenge posed by human-wildlife interactions, prompting authorities to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of both people and wildlife.
