Bhubaneswar: A harrowing incident unfolded in Khunta village of Jaynagar Panchayat in Rajkanika Block, of Kendrapara District, where a minor boy fought off a crocodile attack on the banks of the Brahmani River.
The boy, identified as Rakesh, had gone to fetch water for his father, Ratnakar Mallik, who was working in a nearby field.
As Rakesh approached the river, a crocodile suddenly attacked him, trying to drag him into the water. However, the young boy showed remarkable bravery, holding onto a nearby tree and managing to save his life. His father rushed to the scene after hearing his son’s screams and shifted him to Rajkanika Community Health Centre in critical condition. Rakesh was later referred to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for further treatment.
This incident highlights the growing concern of human-crocodile conflict in the region, particularly during the nesting season of crocodiles when they exhibit aggressive behaviour. The Bhitarkanika National Park, home to approximately 1,793 saltwater crocodiles, has witnessed several such incidents in recent times.
The forest department has taken measures to create awareness among locals and erected barricades at river ghats to prevent such incidents.
