In a coordinated operation on Monday, forest department personnel and fire and rescue services successfully rescued a six-foot-long crocodile that had fallen into an agricultural well in Keel Sengappadi village near Harur in Dharmapuri district. The reptile, identified as a male, was discovered by farmer Venkatachalam, who promptly alerted the Harur forest department and the fire department.
Rescue Operation Details
Upon receiving the information, rescue teams rushed to the location and initiated a meticulous operation. Using nets and ropes, they managed to safely extract the crocodile after a strenuous three-hour struggle. Forest Range Officer K Gokul stated that the crocodile had ventured out of the Thenpennai river in the Theerthamalai reserve forest area in search of prey and inadvertently fell into the well.
Medical Examination and Release
Following the rescue, the crocodile underwent a thorough medical examination. As no injuries were found, it was released into the integrated watershed area where the Thenpennai river and the protected reserve forest are situated. This ensures the reptile's return to its natural habitat, minimizing human-wildlife conflict.
The incident highlights the importance of swift collaboration between forest and fire services in handling wildlife emergencies. The local community has been advised to remain vigilant, especially near water bodies and agricultural areas adjacent to forest regions.
