Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Bahraich on Sunday to meet the families affected by a series of wolf attacks and assured the locals that the district will be made danger-free under ‘Operation Bhediya.’ This campaign aims to tackle the increasing threat posed by wolves in the region.
Speaking to the public, CM Yogi acknowledged the tragic incidents caused by wolf attacks over the past two months, which have led to multiple deaths and injuries, particularly among children. He explained that the attacks began on July 17 after the Saryu River’s water levels rose, prompting wolves to venture into human settlements in search of prey.
The Chief Minister said he had immediately instructed the administration to address the situation, and a team from the forest department was deployed. He also confirmed that in addition to the rescue efforts, shoot-at-sight orders have been issued as a last resort to neutralize the threat.
Highlighting the state’s response, CM Yogi said, “The government has coordinated with relevant departments to address the human-wildlife conflict, categorizing it as a disaster. Anti-rabies treatment has been made available, and homes without doors have had them installed to increase safety.”
The Chief Minister reassured the community that the situation is being monitored and that efforts will continue until Bahraich is entirely free of danger.
In the ongoing ‘Operation Bhediya,’ the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department has captured five out of six wolves responsible for nine deaths and 50 injuries since July. The forest department has employed various methods, including setting up snap cameras to track wolf movements, and is focusing its search in areas less affected by flooding.
On September 13, two women were injured in a suspected wolf attack in Mahasi village, while another woman was severely injured in a similar incident on September 11. The authorities continue to search for the sixth wolf, with the operation ongoing.