In response to a series of fatal wolf attacks in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district that have resulted in eight deaths and injuries to at least 15 others, the local forest department has initiated “Operation Bhediya” to apprehend the rogue wolves responsible. To date, four wolves have been successfully captured, while efforts continue to locate and capture the remaining two.
On Thursday, forest officials captured another wolf and transported it to a shelter. Renu Singh, Chief Forest Conservator of the Central Zone, confirmed the progress, stating, “The fear of wolves that has plagued the region for some time has been alleviated with today’s capture. We now have four wolves in custody and are working to capture the remaining two.”
A video released by ANI, sourced from the Bahraich forest department, depicted the captured wolf being transferred to its new shelter.
Operation Bhediya
Under “Operation Bhediya,” the Bahraich forest department has employed advanced technologies including drone cameras and thermal mapping to track the wolves. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is overseeing the operation closely. Forest Minister Arun Saxena visited the affected area on Wednesday to meet with the victims’ families and reassure them of the ongoing efforts to ensure their safety.
“The district administration has provided ex-gratia payments of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the four deceased. Compensation for the other victims’ families will be processed soon,” an official statement read.
The minister advised residents to avoid sleeping outdoors, keep children inside, and ensure that their homes are securely locked. He also recommended that people move in groups and carry sticks for self-defense.
On Wednesday night, a police official from Bahraich reported that drones, nets, and traps are being used in the ongoing effort to capture the wolves. The official emphasized the continuous nature of the operation and the commitment to preventing further incidents.
While four wolves have been captured, the exact number of wolves in the area remains unclear, according to an official quoted by PTI. Principal Chief Forest Conservator (Wildlife) Sanjay Srivastava indicated that 16 teams, along with 12 district-level officers, are actively engaged in the operation. Renu Singh will remain on-site until the remaining wolves are captured.
The Chief Wildlife Warden has authorized the use of tranquilizers for capturing the wolves. District Magistrate Monika Rani announced that doors are being installed in homes that lack them, and night patrols are being conducted in all villages. ASHA workers are also involved in raising awareness among residents.
Over the past 45 days, the wolf pack has been responsible for the deaths of six children and two adults in various villages within Mehsi tehsil.