Flood Fury / Villager Dragged Into River by Crocodile in Odisha

Kendrapada, Aug 25: Floodwaters in Kendrapada district have intensified crocodile threats, with a fresh incident reported from Rajkanika.

On Monday morning, a villager named Pareshwar Behera was attacked while attempting to cross the Kharasrota river near a ferry point. Witnesses said a crocodile suddenly dragged him away as he approached the boat.

Despite desperate efforts by others on the ferry, they failed to rescue him. Fire services and ODRAF teams have launched a search operation in the river to trace him.

Also read: Odisha Braces for Rain till August 30, Schools Shut in Flood-Hit Areas

According to locals, Kharasrota river separates Bitarakanika from the island village of Gangadhar Prasad Dia. Villagers often cross the river to buy essentials. Pareshwar was on such an errand when the attack occurred.

Residents say crocodiles have become more aggressive during the breeding season, and repeated floods have increased sightings in Rajnagar and nearby areas. Earlier, a crocodile was spotted near Jaynagar on the roadside, raising alarm among commuters.

Meanwhile, in Malkangiri district, crocodile sightings have spread beyond rivers. On Sunday night, a crocodile was seen roaming the main road in Balimela ghat. Shocked motorists stopped in fear as the reptile appeared suddenly in the dark.

A car driver captured the incident on his mobile camera, showing the crocodile moving across the road. It remains unclear how the animal reached the road or whether it returned to the nearby reservoir afterward.

Frequent crocodile appearances in flood-hit regions have sparked panic among residents. Authorities have urged people to remain cautious near rivers and avoid risky crossings.