Mugger Rescued From Village Pond Amid Claims of Satkosia Sanctuary Escape a Year Ago

Angul: A mugger was rescued from a local pond in Purunakot village, Angul district of Odisha today. According to villagers, the crocodile had been hiding in the pond for approximately a year, causing considerable distress among the locals.

It is believed that the mugger escaped from the Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary in the Mahanadi River during last year’s heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding. During this period, the crocodile likely traversed approximately 10 kilometres through a canal to reach the pond in Purunakot.

The villagers expressed their concerns about the presence of the freshwater crocodile, and the news soon gained attention after being reported in the leading Odia daily ‘Sambad.’ As a result, the Forest department took action and initiated measures to rescue the mugger from the pond.

Utilizing a net, the Forest department successfully rescued the crocodile. To ensure its well-being, the reptile will undergo a routine health checkup before being released back into the Mahanadi River.

This timely rescue operation has not only brought relief to the panicked villagers but also highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and ensuring the safe return of displaced animals to their natural habitats.