Kendrapara: As floods continue to affect Kendrapara, snakes and crocodiles are reportedly entering residential areas, creating a fresh threat for villagers in waterlogged parts of Aul, Rajnagar, Rajkanika and Pattamundai blocks.

Former MLA among snakebite victims

On Thursday, former Rajnagar MLA Anshuman Mohanty was reportedly bitten by a snake while touring flood-hit Mandapada village under Pattamundai block. He was taken to Rajnagar Community Health Centre (CHC) for treatment and his condition was stated to be stable.

In another incident, 42-year-old Sabitri Sahoo of Ostia village in Rajnagar block was bitten by a snake while sleeping at home on Wednesday night. She was rushed to Rajnagar CHC and is now stable.

A 32-year-old woman, Sabitri Behera of Belapala village, was also bitten by a snake on Tuesday evening and is undergoing treatment at Rajnagar CHC.

Villagers said rising floodwaters have forced snakes to move towards dry areas, increasing the risk of encounters inside homes.

Anti-venom stock available

Chief District Medical Officer Dr Anita Patnaik said adequate stocks of anti-venom drugs are available at the district headquarters hospital, nine CHCs and 45 primary health centres across Kendrapara.

The availability of anti-venom is expected to help health facilities respond to snakebite cases as floodwaters continue to disrupt normal life.

Crocodile spotted in Gobari river

Meanwhile, a crocodile was reportedly spotted in the Gobari river in Kendrapara town on Wednesday following heavy rain and rising water levels.

A video circulating on social media showed the crocodile moving through the river near the Badahat area. Authorities have confirmed the sighting, raising concern among residents living close to the waterway.

Kendrapara municipality chairperson Sarita Sahoo said residents have been advised to stay away from the river and floodwaters and not attempt to approach, capture or disturb the animal.

“Loudspeaker announcements are being made to warn people against venturing into the river,” she said.

Forest officials from Bhitarkanika have also been urged to capture the crocodile that has reportedly strayed into the area.