LUCKNOW: The villages in Bahraich, where wolf attacks have claimed human lives, are now facing a fresh cause of concern due to erratic power supply, especially during the night. Villagers have to battle the dark for hours, as the fear of another wolf attack keeps them awake throughout the night.
In the affected villages, darkness reigns supreme, punctuated only by the eerie silence broken by the constant vigil of the residents and the unfulfilled promises of improved electricity.This is the grim reality faced by many villages suffering from wolf attacks, including those in the Mahsi gram panchayat.
Ramchandar’s struggle
Local resident Ramchandar shared his harrowing experience: “Our house is made of straw with a makeshift door. I stay on guard with other villagers for protection against the wolves. At night, I also accompany farmers to their fields. There’s a constant risk that the wolves might break through the makeshift door. Because of this, I make my wife and children sleep on the roof of a neighbour’s house.”
Power supply issues and limited forest department support
Residents of Mahsi, including Amrit Lal, Sushil and Ramgopal, reported that neither forest nor revenue teams visit their village. Only announcement teams make occasional appearances and drones have been flown only a couple of times. The villagers highlighted that essential infrastructure like proper doors and solar lights are still lacking, and power cuts are frequent.
Villagers take matters into their own hands
In the village of Jageer, a makeshift watchtower was spotted, where vigilant locals were seen keeping watch. They explained that they sit on the tower with spears to quickly alert the village in case of a wolf sighting. Their companions, Idrees, Vishal, Kripa and Sahadat, affirmed that they continuously monitor the area. They also keep an eye on their crops, as food security is crucial for their survival.
However, district administration authorities said that over 120 lights on high masts and doors in 100 houses have been installed.
