A series of wolf attacks in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh has left 34 people injured, prompting a swift response from the state government. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to take immediate steps to prevent further incidents, but he has also emphasized that shooting the animals should be considered only as a last resort.
The attacks occurred in several villages in the district, with victims suffering injuries ranging from minor bites to serious lacerations. Local residents have expressed concern about the increasing number of wolf encounters in the area, particularly as the animals venture closer to human settlements.
Forest department officials deployed in the affected areas of Bahraich to assess the situation and devise strategies to mitigate the risk of future attacks. They are working to identify the specific wolf packs involved and to deter them from entering human-dominated areas.
While the government has acknowledged the need to protect human lives, it has also stressed the importance of preserving the ecological balance. Chief Minister Adityanath has instructed officials to explore alternative methods of controlling the wolf population, such as relocation or habitat modification, before resorting to lethal measures.
Chief Minister Adityanath has called for coordination among forest, police, local administration, local panchayat, and revenue departments to ensure the safety of residents. He also stressed the importance of raising awareness about the incidents and the steps people can take to protect themselves1.
The incident has once again highlighted the challenges of human-wildlife coexistence in India. As the country’s population continues to grow and encroach on natural habitats, encounters with wild animals are becoming more frequent. Finding sustainable solutions to these conflicts is essential for ensuring the safety of both humans and wildlife.
