Crocodile Drags Woman into Odisha River as Villagers Watch in Horror; Search Operation Underway
In a terrifying incident that has sent shockwaves across Odisha’s Jajpur district, a 57-year-old woman was dragged into the Kharsrota River by a crocodile on Monday afternoon.
The horrifying attack occurred near Kantia village, under the Binjharpur police limits, and was captured in a chilling video that has since gone viral on social media.
The Attack
According to eyewitnesses, it was around 4 p.m. when Soudamini Mahala, a resident of Kantia, had gone to the riverbank for a routine bath.
The Kharsrota River, usually calm and frequented by villagers for daily chores, turned into a scene of chaos and panic within seconds.
Without warning, a large crocodile surged out of the water, lunging at Soudamini and locking its jaws around her.
The reptile’s sheer force pulled her off balance as she screamed for help. Within moments, the predator dragged her into the deeper current of the river — disappearing beneath the surface.
Villagers standing nearby reacted instantly. Several men rushed toward the spot, shouting and throwing stones and sticks in an attempt to scare the crocodile away.
But the creature had already vanished into the depths, taking the woman along. Despite their desperate efforts, the rescuers were unable to save her.
Eyewitness Account
An eyewitness, Naba Kishore Mahala, still shaken from the scene, recounted: We saw the crocodile suddenly rise from the water and grab her.
We jumped in to rescue her, but it was all over in seconds. The current was strong, and the crocodile disappeared before we could do anything.”
Rescue Operation and Official Response
Soon after the incident, residents informed the Binjharpur Police and Fire and Rescue Services, who rushed to the site.
A massive search operation was launched in the river, with divers and boats deployed to trace the woman or any signs of her. As of Tuesday morning, no trace of her has been found, and authorities fear the worst.
Officials have also alerted the Forest Department, which has begun monitoring the river stretch for crocodile movement.
Wildlife experts suspect that the crocodile may have entered the area from a connected wetland or estuarine system following the recent increase in water levels.
Video Sparks Public Outcry
A short video clip of the incident, filmed by a bystander, has gone viral on social media. It shows the horrifying moment when the reptile pulls the woman underwater as helpless villagers scream and rush forward.
The video has triggered widespread outrage and fear among locals, many of whom are now demanding stronger safety measures and warning signs along the Kharsrota River.
Villagers say crocodile sightings have become more frequent in recent months, possibly due to rising water levels and shrinking habitats forcing the reptiles upstream.
Authorities’ Statement
Local police officials confirmed that a coordinated operation involving fire services, forest personnel, and local volunteers is ongoing. “We are combing the river and its adjoining banks. The area is being thoroughly searched, and all possible assistance is being extended to the family,” said a police spokesperson.
District authorities have urged residents to avoid venturing close to the riverbanks, particularly during early morning and evening hours when crocodile activity is highest.
As the search continues, the tragic disappearance of Soudamini Mahala has once again raised questions about human–wildlife conflict in Odisha’s riverine regions, where crocodiles, once confined to specific habitats, are increasingly straying into human settlements.
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