A large crocodile was spotted along the banks of the Netravati river near the new bus stand in Uppinangady on September 3, sparking concern among local residents. The reptile was first noticed by Fayaz U T, a former member of the Ilanthila gram panchayat, who saw it resting on a sandbank by the river in the evening. Fayaz captured a photograph of the sizable crocodile, confirming its presence in the area.
This sighting is not the first of its kind in the Netravati river. In September 2022, three crocodiles were observed near a petrol pump along the river in Panja, resting on a sandbank in the middle of the river during the afternoon. One of these crocodiles was notably larger than the other two. This recent sighting of a lone crocodile further strengthens the belief that the Netravati river is inhabited by these reptiles.
The location of the recent sighting is approximately 500 meters from where the Netravati and Kumaradhara rivers converge. This area is also close to the Shri Sahasralingeshwara-Mahakali Temple, a site known for hosting religious rituals such as Pinda Pradana and holy baths. The appearance of a crocodile near this sacred location has raised concerns, particularly for those who visit the river for spiritual purposes, highlighting potential safety issues in the region.
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