A crocodile sighting in the Padma River in Rajbari is drawing widespread attention and concern.
According to locals, as news of the sighting spread rapidly on social media, onlookers gathered along the riverbank to see the reptile.
Authorities have put up warning signs and are making public announcements to alert residents. The reptile was seen floating near Urakanda Government Primary School in Borat union of Rajbari Sadar upazila.
People from surrounding areas were seen gathering by the riverbank on Wednesday.
Jahangir Alam, assistant teacher at Urakanda Government Primary School, said, “I saw the crocodile floating in the river on Tuesday. We are warning students not to go near the river. I urge the authorities to take immediate action.”
Local resident Masud Sheikh said, “Hundreds of people bathe in the river daily, and fishermen rely on it for their livelihood. The sudden appearance of the crocodile has spread panic, and no one dares to enter the water.”
Shafiqul Hossain, a young villager, said, “The crocodile surfaced around 2pm on Tuesday. I saw it myself. It submerged after people nearby shouted, but others also spotted it around 11am and noon that day.”
Karim Sekh, who came to the riverbank, said, “Men, women, and children use this area daily for bathing, washing clothes, and other chores. Everyone is now scared. I urge the government to catch the crocodile and relocate it safely.”
Khondokar Azizul Islam, forest department officer of Goalanda upazila, said, “After receiving reports, we visited the site on Tuesday. Our team has been on the ground since Wednesday morning. Warning signs have been put up, and public announcements are ongoing to prevent people from entering the river.”
“The matter has been reported to the Khulna Divisional Office, and necessary measures will be taken soon,” he added.
