Persistent waterlogging and shortages of essential resources have already made life difficult for people in several flood-hit areas of Odisha. Now, another threat is adding to their worries, the fear of crocodile attacks. With floodwaters entering homes and causing extensive damage, villagers living near rivers are increasingly concerned about crocodiles being spotted in the swollen water bodies. As water levels begin to recede in some areas, the movement of crocodiles has further heightened anxiety among residents. As the rainy season is also the breeding season for crocodiles, they are believed to be more aggressive during this period.Forest Department Issues Crocodile AlertTaking note of the situation, the Forest Department has stepped up awareness efforts in the affected areas. Officials are travelling through flood-hit villages in boats and using sound alert systems to warn residents about the potential danger. They are urging people to remain cautious while moving through floodwaters.People are being advised to remain cautious and avoid entering rivers or bathing in nearby water bodies. The department is also urging residents to use designated bathing ghats and avoid venturing into the water unnecessarily. A Forest Department official said, “We have been conducting awareness drives in flood-hit areas while travelling in boats. We are making announcements and advising people to remain alert and avoid bathing in nearby rivers due to the fear of crocodiles.”Villagers Seek Safe Water Arrangements.For many residents, however, avoiding river water is proving difficult. A local resident said the situation remains grim as several families have limited access to tap water, leaving them dependent on rivers for their daily needs.“People here have no proper tap water arrangements, so they have no option but to depend on river water. Now, with the fear of crocodiles, everyone is tense. We request the government to make arrangements such as barricades or other safety measures to protect people living in these areas,” the resident said. Amid the continuing flood situation, the Forest Department is intensifying awareness drives and urging residents to stay away from river water wherever possible. Officials are also monitoring the situation as villagers remain on alert over the potential crocodile threat….
Rising crocodile fear grips flood-hit villages in Odisha, Forest dept launches awareness drive
