On Tuesday morning, a crocodile attack claimed the life of a 56-year-old woman in the Galia River, a branch of the Mahanadi, close to Kharinasi village in the Mahakalapada block of Odisha’s Kendrapada district.

The victim has been identified as Hemalata Das, the widow of Samar Das and a resident of Kharinasi village. Reports indicate that Hemalata had ventured to her agricultural fields around 8 a.m. It is believed she approached the river, likely to answer nature’s call, when the crocodile struck, pulling her into deeper water.

After a desperate search, local residents succeeded in rescuing her and swiftly transported her to Ramnagar Hospital. Subsequently, she was moved to the Kendrapada District Headquarters Hospital, where medical staff pronounced her dead.

This incident has instilled fear among the local community, underscoring the escalating conflicts between humans and wildlife in the riverine areas of Kendrapada. Residents are calling on authorities to enhance awareness initiatives and implement protective measures for those living alongside crocodile-infested waterways.