12-Foot Saltwater Crocodile Rescued from Village Pond in Kendrapara

Kendrapara: A saltwater crocodile was rescued from a village pond in Baggahana village under Mahakalapada block of Kendrapara district after it was spotted near a cowshed on the banks of the Gobari River.

According to local reports, crocodile sightings have been reported in rivers, creeks and ponds in parts of the district, prompting caution among residents who depend on water bodies for their daily activities.

Recently, a person was reportedly dragged by a crocodile at G.P. Dia Ghat under Rajkanika block. The incident has raised concerns among residents living near water bodies in the area.

On Wednesday night, villagers reportedly spotted a nearly 12-foot-long saltwater crocodile near the cowshed of Swadesh Kar at Baggahana village. After villagers noticed the reptile, it moved into a nearby pond.

Residents informed the Jambu Forest Department staff about the crocodile. Forest personnel reached the spot and, with the assistance of local residents, carried out a rescue operation that continued for several hours.

The crocodile was subsequently rescued from the pond. According to the Mahakalapada Range Officer, the reptile is expected to be released into a protected creek within the Bhitarkanika National Park area, following the prescribed procedure.

Forest officials have advised residents to exercise caution near rivers, creeks and ponds and to inform the forest department if crocodiles are spotted in areas frequented by people.