In Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district, a massive search operation is underway as wildlife authorities and forest officials work to capture a pack of wolves that have been causing widespread panic. While four wolves have already been captured, the focus is now on tracking down the remaining members of the pack.
Forest Department General Manager Sanjay Pathak confirmed that drones are being used in the search operation. He stated, “We are tracking them (wolves). No untoward incident has been reported. Drones are also being used in the search operation.” Despite the ongoing efforts, Tuesday night passed without any wolf attacks, but the search continues with no success in locating the remaining wolves.
District Forest Officer (DFO) Bahraich, Ajit Pratap Singh, explained that a multi-faceted approach is being used to capture the wolves. This includes the deployment of thermal drones to track their movements, identifying pugmarks, and gathering intelligence from local residents. A recent sighting was reported, but the wolf managed to escape due to the commotion caused by villagers.
The DFO noted that thermal drones have so far been unable to locate the wolves, emphasizing that visual confirmation from villagers is crucial. However, most reports come in after evening, when the drone’s camera capabilities are less effective. The infrared cameras used face challenges in distinguishing between wolves, jackals, or dogs in low light conditions. Singh also suggested that there might be a third wolf involved, questioning the initial assumption that only two wolves were present. In response, the team has intensified its efforts by deploying four thermal drones to aid in the capture.
Uttar Pradesh Forest Minister Arun Saxena is set to visit Bahraich today to monitor the situation. He will hold a review meeting with senior Forest Department officials at the Collectorate auditorium after arriving at the Bahraich Circuit House at noon. The presence of wolves has caused widespread panic in Bahraich, prompting swift action from the forest department. Mahsi MLA Sureshvar Singh also visited Barah Bigha village to assess the situation, suggesting that there may be three wolves in total, based on their hunting patterns.
Meanwhile, the number of people injured in the alleged wolf attacks in Bahraich has risen to 34, according to Dr. Ashish Verma, Superintendent of the Mahasi Community Health Centre. Two of the injured were referred to the District Hospital in Bahraich and are reported to be in stable condition.
Previously, under ‘Operation Bhediya,’ the Uttar Pradesh Police and Forest Department successfully captured four wolves believed to be behind several attacks on villagers in the region.