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Floodwaters Push Crocodiles Near Odisha Villages: Helpline Launched
4 Aug
Summary
- Emergency WhatsApp helpline activated due to rising floodwaters.
- Forest staff conduct door-to-door awareness campaigns in flood-prone villages.
- Villagers advised to avoid water bodies and report crocodile sightings immediately.
Rising floodwaters in Odisha's Brahmani, Mahanadi, and Baitarani river systems have prompted the Rajnagar mangrove forest division to take proactive safety measures. An emergency WhatsApp helpline (9938914101) has been activated to address potential human-crocodile conflicts.
Frontline forest staff are actively conducting door-to-door awareness campaigns in flood-prone villages. These efforts aim to educate residents about increased risks as estuarine crocodiles are often pushed closer to human settlements by rising waters.
Communities are being advised to avoid unnecessary trips to rivers, canals, and creeks. Precautions are also stressed for activities like collecting water, fishing, and bathing. Parents are urged to supervise children near water bodies, and livestock should be kept away from known crocodile habitats.
Authorities are encouraging immediate reporting of any crocodile sightings near residential areas or water bodies via the helpline. This collaborative effort between forest personnel and local communities seeks to promote safe coexistence and minimize conflict during the flood season.
