A crocodile sighting in the Padma River in Rajbari has sparked panic among riverside residents. The large reptile was seen floating near Urakanda in Borat Union of Rajbari Sadar on Tuesday.
Locals said the crocodile surfaced repeatedly around 12pm in front of Urakanda Government Primary School, triggering widespread alarm.
During a visit to the spot, hundreds of residents and curious onlookers gathered along the riverbank to catch a glimpse of the animal.
Local resident Suman Mondol said the crocodile had been surfacing during the daytime for three consecutive days near the primary school. “Even this morning, it came up several times near the bank. At one point, a housewife came to wash clothes in the river but fled in fear after seeing it,” he said.
Another resident, Nahidur Rahman, said the crocodile surfaced repeatedly throughout the morning. “Hundreds of people bathe here every day. The sightings have created both curiosity and fear among people living along the Padma,” he said.
Rajbari Forest Department acting in-charge officer Mir Sayedur Rahman confirmed the sighting. He said capturing the crocodile would be nearly impossible as it was in the main Padma channel. “We will raise awareness among locals so they avoid entering the river,” he said.
Rajbari Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Nirupona Roy said the administration had been informed. “We are warning residents living along the Padma riverbank to remain cautious,” she said.
