Bhubaneswar: The body of a woman who was dragged into a river by a saltwater crocodile near Suniti Benakanda village under Mahakalpada block in Kendrapara district, was recovered early Saturday morning.
The deceased has been identified as Laxmi Dalei, a resident of Suniti Benakanda. The tragic incident took place within the Bhitarkanika National Park area.
According to reports, the woman was near the riverbank when the crocodile suddenly attacked and pulled her into the water. Despite immediate efforts by locals to locate her, she remained missing.
Her body was recovered from the river on Saturday morning and sent for post-mortem.
Forest officials have launched an awareness drive in the area, urging residents to stay cautious near water bodies.