Mumbai, April 6 A six-foot-long crocodile was rescued from a dry pit after a 15-hour operation by the Forest Department in a village near Murbad in Thane district on Monday, officials said.
The reptile had been sighted multiple times in the past few months in and around Masle Talao, an ancient lake in the area. Its presence caused panic among tribal residents, especially since there were no previous records of crocodiles in the village.
As the water levels in the lake receded, the crocodile began venturing outside, frequently entering a pit used by locals as a water source, increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflict.
To ensure the safety of both residents and the animal, a rescue and relocation plan was implemented, involving forest staff and villagers.
Members of Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW) were also involved in the operation, officials added.
Rescuers drained water from the pit and set up a cage to capture the crocodile. A large net was used to subdue the large reptile.
The crocodile will now undergo a medical examination by veterinarians in Mumbai. Following the assessment, the Forest Department will decide on its release into a suitable natural habitat, with assistance from the involved non-profit organisations, officials added.