Crocodile spotted in Mahanadi, forest dept issues alert in Subarnapur

Panic gripped Duradura village under the Birmaharajpur forest range in Odisha's Subarnapur district after a crocodile was spotted in the Mahanadi river on Tuesday, prompting authorities to issue a safety advisory for local residents.

According to reports, a group of fishermen noticed the crocodile while fishing in the river. Alarmed by the sighting, they immediately alerted the Forest Department. In response, officials have urged villagers not to venture into the river until further instructions are issued.

The Forest Department has deployed its staff in the area to spread awareness. Using loudspeakers, officials have been moving around the village, warning people, particularly fishermen, to stay away from the riverbanks and avoid entering the water.

Residents have also been advised to exercise extreme caution while carrying out daily activities near the river.

The advisory has caused concern among villagers, many of whom depend on fishing in the Mahanadi for their livelihood. 

Officials, however, stressed that safety is the top priority and necessary steps are being taken to monitor the crocodile’s movements.

Authorities have assured that measures will be taken to prevent any untoward incident, and villagers have been asked to strictly follow instructions until the situation is brought under control.