Crocodile sightings spark panic among riverside communities in Rajbari

Multiple crocodiles have reportedly been spotted daily in Rajbari’s Gorai River over the last month. Despite growing alarm in nearby communities, curious residents are flocking to the riverbanks to catch a glimpse of the reptiles.

Pangsa Upazila executive officer, or UNO, SM Abu Darda assured residents that an expert team from the Forest Department would be brought in to capture the crocodiles.

Although there is a sense of panic in the villages, locals continue to gather near the river to see the crocodiles. While some have reported seeing three crocodiles at once, others are relying on age-old chants in hopes of attracting even one.

Shipon Ali, a local resident, said he had seen two crocodiles at once and managed to capture a video of the incident.

Another resident, Kesmot Ali, called on the authorities to remove the crocodiles from their surroundings, citing safety concerns for himself and his livestock.

China Khatun, a Pangsa native, echoed Kesmot's concerns, adding, "We used to bathe in the river, but no one goes in anymore."

She also urged the authorities to swiftly relocate the reptiles to a bigger river.

The Gorai River flows through the borders of the Rajbari, Jhenaidah and Kushtia districts, but crocodile sightings have never been reported before. It is unclear how the crocodiles entered the river.

UNO Darda said, “I have visited that area several times. I haven’t seen anything myself, but I have watched videos on locals’ mobile phones. It could be a crocodile.”

He also said that a written application has already been sent to the Upazila Forest Department, requesting a specialist team to capture the crocodiles.

Sanjida Sultana, Rajbari Forest Department's assistant conservator, said, "We have received a written request. However, there is no expert team in Rajbari. That is why the incident has been referred to higher authorities. We will follow their instructions.”