A door-to-door awareness campaign has also been launched in villages located along riverbanks and other flood-prone areas.
Odisha Forest Department Launches WhatsApp Helpline for Human-Crocodile Conflict: In response to rising water levels in the Brahmani, Mahanadi, and Baitarani rivers during the rainy season, the Rajnagar Forest Division has launched a massive door-to-door awareness campaign to prevent human-crocodile conflict.
According to an official statement issued by the Forest Department, the Luna Jungle Forest Range under the Rajnagar Forest Division has operationalised the WhatsApp helpline 9938914101 for people to report crocodile sightings.
A door-to-door awareness campaign has also been launched in villages located along riverbanks and other flood-prone areas. With floodwaters rising, crocodiles are more likely to move from rivers into nearby villages. To minimise the risk of attacks, forest personnel are visiting vulnerable villages and educating people about precautionary measures and safety practices. Residents have been advised to avoid entering rivers, canals and streams during the monsoon unless necessary.
During the campaign, residents have been advised to avoid entering rivers, canals and streams during the monsoon unless necessary. People collecting water, bathing or fishing have been asked to remain extremely cautious. Parents have also been urged not to allow children near water bodies without adult supervision, while livestock owners have been advised to stay alert when grazing animals or taking them to water in crocodile-prone areas.
The Odisha Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department has asked all residents, especially those living in riverine areas, to remain vigilant. It has requested people to follow the safety guidelines issued by the Forest Department and cooperate with forest personnel to ensure the safety of both human life and wildlife. The awareness drive is being conducted with the active participation of forest staff and local villagers to promote safe coexistence between humans and crocodiles.
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