Vadodara: Rising river levels following continuous heavy rainfall have led to crocodiles emerging from their natural habitats and venturing onto roads in Gujarat’s Vadodara, creating panic among motorists and prompting wildlife authorities to issue safety advisories.
One such incident occurred on a service road along a national highway, where a crocodile was spotted moving across the road, forcing vehicles to slow down. In another incident, drivers were startled when a crocodile suddenly appeared in front of a moving car, bringing traffic to a brief halt as people watched from a safe distance.
The sightings come amid increasing water levels in rivers flowing through Vadodara, causing crocodiles to move into nearby residential areas, roads and open spaces in search of safer ground.
Crocodile spotted on highway service road
A crocodile was seen on the service road of a national highway in Vadodara, surprising commuters travelling through the stretch.
Videos recorded by passers-by showed the reptile calmly moving across the road while motorists maintained a safe distance. Traffic slowed temporarily as drivers waited for the animal to move away before proceeding.
Forest officials later reached the spot to monitor the situation and ensure that the crocodile did not pose a threat to the public.
Drivers caught off guard
In another incident, a crocodile suddenly appeared in front of a moving car, leaving the occupants shocked.
The driver immediately brought the vehicle to a stop, preventing any collision with the reptile. The unexpected encounter caused panic among other motorists using the road, with several vehicles slowing down or stopping until the crocodile moved away.
No injuries or damage to vehicles were reported in either incident.
Rising rivers push crocodiles out
Wildlife experts say such sightings become more common during the monsoon when rivers and lakes overflow.
As water levels rise, crocodiles may move beyond their usual habitats and enter nearby roads, residential areas and agricultural fields. Strong currents can also carry the reptiles into unexpected locations.
Vadodara, which is home to a significant crocodile population in the Vishwamitri River, witnesses occasional sightings during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding.
Officials said the recent increase in river levels has likely forced some crocodiles to move towards higher ground, resulting in their appearance on roads.
Authorities urge public to stay alert
Forest Department officials have advised residents and motorists not to approach, provoke or attempt to capture crocodiles if spotted.
Instead, people have been urged to immediately inform the Forest Department or local authorities so trained rescue personnel can safely relocate the reptiles.
Motorists travelling near rivers, canals and flood-prone areas have also been asked to drive cautiously, particularly during the night and early morning when visibility is low.
Officials emphasised that crocodiles are wild animals and can react unpredictably if threatened.
Monsoon increases human-wildlife encounters
Heavy rainfall and flooding often increase interactions between humans and wildlife as animals move in search of safer habitats.
Experts have urged people living near rivers and water bodies to remain vigilant during the monsoon and supervise children in areas where crocodile movement has previously been reported.
Authorities continue to monitor vulnerable locations in Vadodara and have appealed to the public not to gather around crocodiles or attempt to record videos from close range, as such actions could endanger both people and the animals.
With the monsoon expected to continue, officials are maintaining close surveillance of flood-affected areas and remain prepared to respond to further crocodile sightings.