Crocodile Near Redhakhol Railway Track Sparks Panic Among Villagers
Sambalpur: Panic gripped residents of Patakhaman village under Redhakhol block in Odisha’s Sambalpur district after a crocodile was spotted near a railway track on Tuesday.
The unexpected sighting prompted villagers to alert the Forest Department, which has launched a search and rescue operation.
Based on reports published by Crocodile Spotted Near Railway Track In Redhakhol Village, Triggers Panic, the reptile later moved into a nearby forest area.
According to local resident Raju Pradhan, he noticed the crocodile between 8 pm and 9 pm while returning home from his agricultural field.
At the time, a train was approaching from the Redhakhol side.
Villagers raised an alarm after spotting the reptile near the tracks, following which it reportedly retreated into the adjoining forest area.
Forest officials were immediately informed, and teams were deployed to trace the animal. Preliminary estimates suggest the crocodile is around seven to eight feet long.
However, authorities have not yet determined how the reptile reached the area near the village and railway line.
The incident has created concern among local residents, particularly farmers and commuters who frequently use nearby roads and fields.
Forest officials have advised people to remain cautious and avoid attempting to approach, capture, or provoke the animal.
The rescue and monitoring operation was continuing at the time of reporting as officials worked to safely locate and secure the crocodile.
