It isn’t everyday people in India get to see a huge crocodile trying its best to climb a metal fence, that too in a city no less. That’s exactly what happened on May 29, 2024, when residents of Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, were left in awe as a massive crocodile was seen trying very hard to scale an iron railing presumably to get back into the Ganges from where it might have been washed inland due to heavy floods.
The Incident Caught on Camera
This remarkable incident took place at the Narora Barrage in Bulandshahr on May 29, 2024. The footage was captured by onlookers who were astonished by the sheer size and strength of the crocodile. The reptile was trying its best to climb a railing, struggling to get back into the canal that flowed out into the Ganges. At times, it even fell, but kept on trying.
A Viral Sensation
Well, soon cameras and cellphones began rolling because it isn’t a usual sight, it could even be termed terrifying because a large crocodile like that isn’t something people in an Indian city are used too unless you live in the Sundarbans, the largest delta in the world. Uttar Pradesh can almost be termed a northern state, and it isn’t common to find crocodiles there. The scene became a hot topic on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
Fortunately, some residents did the practical thing of calling wildlife forest officers. Seeing from the reptile’s predicament, it was unlikely that it would have made it into the river. Wildlife officers promptly reacted and captured the crocodile.
A Safe Release
The reptile suffered a few injuries from the metal railing, but was treated accordingly. Wildlife officer secured its legs with ropes and then safely released back into the river with no harm to animal or humans.
How It Got There Is a Mystery
Authorities are yet to figure out how such a massive crocodile was seen in Uttar Pradesh. Usually, Indian crocodiles inhabit the middle stretch of the Ganges in states like Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. However, there have been some stray incidents over the years of crocodiles entering urban areas in UP.
Flooding Played a Role
India has been having a major problem with flooding this year with most rivers, especially the Ganges in Spate. There is a possibility that the crocodile was displaced due to flooding. Similar incidents have been reported throughout the country as well. A few weeks back, in the city of Kolkata, a gharial, which is an endangered long snouted crocodile was found swimming very close to the banks of the city.
Reflections on Human-Wildlife Interactions
India has a diverse wildlife, and the event hopefully will serve as a reminder to locals who often react in panic to wild animals entering urban areas. As human populations expand and encroach upon natural habitats, encounters with wild animals are becoming more common. It’s crucial to maintain respect for wildlife and support conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
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