Is There a Wolf Scare in Bahraich?
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Synopsis
Residents of Bahraich are on edge over a potential wolf threat after recent sightings and signs. Conservationists are acting swiftly, but how serious is the danger? This article delves into the ongoing efforts to ensure safety while addressing the unique challenges faced by the community.
Key Takeaways
- Residents are urged to remain vigilant.
- Authorities are implementing safety measures.
- Past wolf attacks highlight the seriousness of the situation.
- Community awareness is crucial for safety.
- Thermal scanning efforts are underway.
New Delhi, Sep 16 (NationPress) - Anxiety has risen once more among the residents of villages in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh due to reports of a potential man-eating wolf roaming the area. Conservation experts have indicated that while definitive video proof is lacking, recent indicators, including a wolf photograph, paw prints, and fresh wound samples, imply the wolf's presence.
Authorities are now conducting an extensive patrol and surveillance operation.
“We have also utilized thermal drones for scanning. Although we found no traces on video, a local resident captured a photo of a wolf at 10:30 A.M. and shared it with us. Additionally, we have observed the footprint. While it's not definitive, we have collected a sample from the wound, which we plan to test at the Wildlife Institute of India. This area has previously experienced two wolf attacks, prompting us to deploy a 12-member team, operating both day and night,” stated Dr. Sammaran.
Teams under the supervision of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Gonda, are performing ongoing monitoring, particularly during nighttime hours. Residents are urged to remain alert and report any sightings.
In an effort to enhance safety, authorities have set up trap-cameras, CCTV cameras, cages, and established a control room within the village. Nearly 70 personnel are directly involved, with over 100 providing assistance. The administration has also highlighted issues like inadequate outdoor lighting to the attention of the District Magistrate and CDO.
Dr. Sammaran elaborated that during the monsoon season, rising river levels flood the banks, creating grassland areas that attract prey animals closer to human settlements. It is during these months (July-September) that wolf encounters have surged in recent years.
Previously, a pack of wolves in Mahsi Tehsil has been linked to at least ten fatalities, including many children, and over 30 injuries. Authorities initiated 'Operation Bhediya' to track, trap, and capture the wolves.
In Mahsi, villages have reported nighttime attacks, occasionally occurring while individuals were sleeping outdoors due to humidity and inadequate shelter conditions.
In a recent incident, a 12-year-old boy sustained severe injuries in Kharmariya Hardo Patti village, leading to renewed calls for improved lighting, nighttime patrols, and community awareness.
Authorities stress that while concrete evidence remains elusive in this latest scare, proactive measures are actively being undertaken.
Residents are encouraged to avoid being outdoors at night, secure their homes with proper doors, keep children indoors, and report any new signs to forest officials. The current effort showcases heightened vigilance built on valuable lessons learned from past wolf incidents in Bahraich.
Point of View
I recognize the community's fear and the necessity for immediate action. The past experiences with wolf attacks highlight the urgency of the situation in Bahraich. It's vital for authorities to implement effective safety measures while keeping the public informed. Our role is to ensure the community stays vigilant and proactive in confronting this challenge.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the wolf scare in Bahraich?
Reports of potential wolf sightings, including photographs and footprints, have raised concerns among residents in Bahraich.
What actions are authorities taking to address the situation?
Authorities have initiated extensive patrols, set up surveillance cameras, and are investigating any signs of wolf activity.
What are the safety recommendations for villagers?
Residents are advised to stay indoors at night, secure their homes, and report any wolf sightings to forest officials.
Have there been previous wolf attacks in the area?
Yes, there have been past incidents of wolf attacks in Bahraich, leading to fatalities and injuries.
What is 'Operation Bhediya'?
'Operation Bhediya' is an initiative launched by authorities to track, trap, and capture wolves in the region.
