Malkangiri: Officials of Malkangiri Forest Division successfully rescued a 4-foot mugger crocodile from a private pond in MV-104 village under Balimela Range on August 10.
According to officials, the crocodile was sighted in the pond by locals, following which the information was immediately conveyed to the Forest Department.
Acting on the information, the Rapid Response Team (RRT) along with Balimela Range field staff were deployed for search, monitoring and rescue operations. The rescue was carried out under the continuous supervision of DFO Malkangiri and ACFs.
After repeated attempts, the RRT team successfully captured the reptile. The mugger crocodile is currently kept under medical observation.
Officials said the animal will be released into its natural habitat after necessary health assessment and clearance.
Forest officials have urged villagers to immediately inform the department in case of any wildlife sightings to ensure safe rescue and avoid human-wildlife conflict.
