Cuttack, June 11: Panic gripped residents near Ghoradia Mahanadi Ghat under Narsinghpur block after a crocodile was spotted close to the riverbank while a group of villagers had gone for bathing.

Locals said they noticed the reptile while entering the river and immediately alerted the authorities, following which Forest Department officials rushed to the spot and launched a swift search operation. The crocodile was subsequently captured, ensuring no harm to the villagers present at the site.

Later, the reptile was safely relocated and released into a deeper part of the Mahanadi River by forest officials as a precautionary measure for both public safety and the animal’s well-being.

Officials stated that such steps are being taken to minimise human-wildlife conflict in riverine areas where crocodile movement is common. Residents have been advised to remain cautious while visiting riverbanks and avoid entering deep waters alone.

In a separate recent incident, a man was injured in a crocodile attack in Kendrapara district. The victim, identified as Khyamanidhi Das of Balichandrapur village under Rajanagar block, was attacked while bathing in a water body linked to the Brahmani river system. He sustained injuries on both legs before being rescued with the help of villagers, who drove the reptile away using bamboo sticks. He was later admitted to Rajanagar Hospital.

Forest officials have reiterated their advisory urging people living near rivers and water bodies to exercise caution, especially in areas known for crocodile presence.