Konark: A series of crocodile sightings along the Konark–Chandrabhaga to Astaranga–Jahania coastline has triggered alarm among tourists and local communities, with many now reluctant to walk along the shore or venture into the sea.
The latest sighting at Astaranga’s Jahania beach has intensified fears, prompting the Forest Department to scale up surveillance and intervention efforts.
With the peak tourist season under way and the Konark Festival approaching, the department has deployed eight specialised teams under the supervision of Konark Range Officer Sudarshan Dehury to trace and capture the crocodiles. These teams are patrolling the stretch from the Ramchandi river mouth and Konark–Chandrabhaga coast to the Jahania and Devi river mouth in Astaranga. Each unit, comprising a forest guard and five forest workers, is conducting foot patrols and sensitising tourists about possible crocodile movement in the area. Warning banners have been installed at prominent beaches, including Ramchandi estuary, Chandrabhaga and Jahania.
Crocodile sightings in the region have grown increasingly frequent.
The Forest Department has urged tourists to maintain caution, avoid venturing deep into the sea, and adhere strictly to safety advisories as patrols continue across the coastline.
