A number of crocodiles, both small and large, have been spotted in the Padma River in Rajshahi. A couple recently managed to capture a photo of an adult crocodile, while local fishermen reported seeing several smaller ones but could not take photos. Authorities have issued a public warning, advising against bathing in the river.
The Department of Wildlife Management and Nature Conservation has confirmed the sightings.
Jahangir Kabir, the wildlife inspector for Rajshahi, confirmed the report, saying, “We have received a photo of an adult crocodile. It might have a companion, and fishermen have also claimed to have seen smaller crocodiles. This suggests that there are more crocodiles in the Padma, and we must remain cautious. Aquatic animals should not be disturbed in their natural habitat.”
He also mentioned that locals have requested the authorities to remove the crocodiles, and in response, leaflets are being distributed to raise awareness.
The leaflets issued by the authorities contain detailed information about crocodiles, describing them as aggressive, semi-aquatic, carnivorous reptiles.
The leaflets caution the public to avoid disturbing crocodiles, keep children away from riverbanks, exercise caution while fishing, refrain from bathing in the river, and temporarily halt small boat activities. Local authorities are also advising against working near the river at night.
The couple, Imrul Kayes and Umme Khadija Eva, recently visited the Padma River to take photos of birds but returned with images of a crocodile instead. Earlier, Rajju Ahmed, a shepherd from the ‘Shaatbigha’ char, was the first to spot a crocodile while grazing cattle, local Wildlife Management and Nature Conservation officers said.
Crocodiles play an essential role in the aquatic food chain, helping keep the environment clean by consuming dead fish and other aquatic animals. Under Bangladesh’s Wildlife Protection and Security Act of 2012, disturbing or harming a crocodile, including throwing stones, buying, selling, smuggling, or killing one, carries a penalty of up to five years in prison or a fine of 500,000 Tk, or both.
