A 54-year-old woman displayed remarkable courage when she was attacked by a saltwater crocodile in the Ramachandi river within Bhitarkanika National Park on Wednesday. Chabi Bhukta, a resident of the remote, mangrove-covered Petachela village under the Mahakalapada forest range, fought valiantly against the reptile and managed to escape.
Recounting the harrowing experience, Chabi said, "When I entered the river, a crocodile caught hold of my hand and started dragging me into the water. I started shouting and also pricked the eyes of the reptile with a spoon. The crocodile loosened its grip, enabling me to escape." She is currently undergoing treatment at the Mahakalpada community health centre, having sustained injuries on her hands, legs, and belly.
This incident comes two months after a 54-year-old fisherman from Kansala village, located near Bhitarkanika National Park, was killed by a saltwater crocodile in the Gobari river on March 11. The region has seen increasing human-crocodile conflicts as the reptile population grows in the Bhitarkanika ecosystem.
About the Author
Ashis Senapati, a seasoned journalist with the Times of India, reports from Kendrapada, Odisha. Covering crime, social issues, and local events in Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, and Kendrapada districts, his impactful stories, including human-animal conflicts and legal developments, reflect deep community insight, earning recognition for highlighting critical regional concerns.
