Bhubaneswar, August 5: With water levels rising across the Brahmani, Mahanadi, and Baitarani river systems during the monsoon, the Lunajangal Wildlife Range under the Rajnagar Forest Division has activated an emergency WhatsApp helpline (9938914101) to respond swiftly to crocodile sightings and ensure public safety.

The Forest Department has also launched a large-scale door-to-door awareness campaign in villages vulnerable to human-crocodile conflict. The initiative aims to educate residents about the increased likelihood of crocodiles moving from rivers into nearby human settlements and frequently used river ghats as floodwaters continue to rise.

Field staff are visiting flood-prone villages to inform local communities about precautionary measures and the appropriate response in the event of a crocodile encounter. Officials have urged residents to avoid entering rivers, canals, or drainage channels during the monsoon unless absolutely necessary.

People have also been advised to remain vigilant while collecting water, fishing, or bathing in natural water bodies. Parents are encouraged to ensure children do not approach rivers or ponds without adult supervision, while livestock owners have been asked to exercise caution when grazing animals or taking them to water in crocodile-prone areas.

The Forest Department has appealed to the public to immediately report any crocodile sighting in residential areas or nearby water bodies through the dedicated WhatsApp helpline (9938914101), enabling officials to take prompt action.

The awareness campaign is being carried out with the active participation of forest personnel and local communities, with the objective of minimizing human-crocodile conflict and promoting safe coexistence.

The Odisha Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department has urged residents, particularly those living along riverbanks, to remain alert, follow the safety advisories issued by the Forest Department, and cooperate with officials to help safeguard both human lives and wildlife during the monsoon season.