Haldwani: In recent days, there have been frequent crocodile attacks in the Haldwani and Terai regions of Uttarakhand, causing significant fear among the local population. To save the people from this menace, the state forest department has rescued over 40 crocodiles and is now planning to launch an awareness campaign to educate people about the dangers and precautions to take in these areas.
Crocodile population is increasing in rivers and water streams in Terai region
Haldwani: Continuous reports of crocodile attacks are emerging from the Terai Eastern Forest Division, leading to a rise in human-wildlife conflicts. The numerous drains and rivers in this area are home to a significant number of crocodiles. With the increasing number of crocodiles, human-wildlife conflicts are also on the rise in the state. There are many drains and rivers under the forest division, where a large number of crocodiles are present and breeding.
Forest department to install signboards to inform
In response, the forest department plans to identify crocodile-prone areas and install signboards to inform and warn the public about the presence of crocodiles. This initiative aims to increase awareness and ensure people’s safety. Himanshu Bagdi, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Terai East Forest Division, highlighted that the drains and rivers near Nanakmatta Sagar in the Sitarganj area are natural habitats for crocodiles. People often venture into these forests to collect fodder for their cattle, but due to a lack of awareness, several fatal incidents have occurred.
Over 40 crocodiles have been rescued from various locations
In the past two months alone, three people have fallen victim to crocodile attacks. Additionally, numerous incidents have been reported in the past. The recent rains have exacerbated the situation, causing many crocodiles to enter populated areas. This year, over 40 crocodiles have been rescued from various locations.
Recent incidents instilled fear among villagers
On 2 August, Thursday morning, a teenager who had gone to have fodder for animals with his father and brother in Barkidandi village of Nanakmatta was dragged into the water by crocodiles. On receiving the information, the forest department and police team started searching for the teenager. On 13 July, a crocodile created a stir in a farmer’s field near Bindukhta Ghoda Nala under Gaula Range of Terai Eastern Forest Division. On getting the information about the crocodile, the nearby villagers gathered and informed the forest department about it. On receiving the information, the forest department team reached the spot and rescued the crocodile and released it in the river.
