Crocodile Electrocuted in Gandhi Sagar Dam Backwaters, Three Arrested for Illegal Fishing
The tragic death of a crocodile in the backwaters of the Gandhi Sagar Dam in Mandsaur district has been conclusively linked to illegal electro-fishing activities. This incident has raised significant alarms about the growing threat to aquatic ecosystems from such destructive practices. The forest department has taken swift action, arresting three individuals and initiating legal proceedings under multiple acts.
Social Media Video Exposes Mass Fish Deaths and Crocodile Carcass
The case first came to public attention on April 15 when a disturbing video surfaced on social media platforms. The footage showed a large number of dead fish floating along the banks near the Sanjit submergence zone, accompanied by the carcass of a crocodile. Local residents featured in the video explicitly mentioned fishing activities involving the discharge of electric current into the water, providing crucial initial evidence.
Joint Operation Leads to Arrests and Equipment Seizure
In response to the video evidence, teams from the forest department and Nahargarh police launched a coordinated joint operation. This operation resulted in the arrest of three accused individuals: Sukanta Sarkar, Sujan Biswas, and Devabrata Biswas, all natives of West Bengal. Authorities seized a UPS battery, electric wires, and other specialized equipment used for electro-fishing from their possession, confirming the illegal nature of their activities.
Dual Legal Action Under Fisheries and Wildlife Protection Acts
In a comprehensive legal response, separate cases have been registered by both departments involved. The police have booked the accused for illegal fishing and theft of fish under relevant provisions of the Fisheries Act. Simultaneously, the Forest Department is initiating action under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 for the killing of a crocodile, which is a protected species under Indian law. This dual approach ensures that both the economic and ecological crimes are addressed.
Two-Month Operation Revealed During Investigation
According to the Divisional Forest Officer's report, preliminary investigations have uncovered that the accused had been operating in the reservoir area for nearly two months. They employed electric current to kill fish in bulk, a method that while ensuring large catches, indiscriminately destroys aquatic life and causes severe, lasting damage to the ecosystem. Officials believe the crocodile was electrocuted during one such operation, making it a tragic collateral casualty of this illegal practice.
Intensive Search Operations Locate Crocodile Carcass
Search operations were conducted over multiple days across the vast backwater stretch. On April 16, an initial team failed to locate the carcass, prompting an intensified search on April 17 across villages including Dobra, Chhayan, Antri Semli, and Khedi using both boats and foot patrols. Finally, on April 18, the carcass of the crocodile was recovered during a focused boat-based search along the reservoir's banks. Wildlife Veterinary Officer Dr. Akash Valmiki reached the site to conduct a post-mortem examination and assist in the scientific investigation into the precise cause of death.
Potential Larger Network and Interstate Links Under Investigation
Officials have indicated that these arrests may be part of a larger, more organized network. There is a strong possibility that illegally procured fish were being supplied to traders in other cities, suggesting interstate connections. The Forest Department has initiated a further probe to determine the full extent of the operation and identify any additional links or accomplices involved in this environmentally destructive enterprise.
This incident highlights the critical need for enhanced surveillance and stricter enforcement of fishing regulations in sensitive aquatic habitats. The use of electro-fishing not only threatens protected species like crocodiles but also undermines the entire ecological balance of water bodies, affecting biodiversity and local communities dependent on these resources.
