Kadaba: Crocodile found dead in Kumaradhara river

Kadaba/Subrahmanya: The dead body of a crocodile was found floating beneath the Pulikukku Bridge on the Panja – Kadaba link road on the Kumaradhara River on Friday.

The public who noticed the remains informed the forest department. The crocodile is estimated to be 1.5-2 years of age and is suspected to have died on Thursday. Crocodiles usually have a lifespan of up to 50-60 years.

Though the exact reason remains a mystery, it is alleged that the death may have been due to heatstroke or water contamination. People noted that river flow has slowed and the intense heat may have led to the death.

Forest officials said the poisoning could be ruled out as fish were seen swimming near the spot. The water is also flowing freely they said. Territorial fights are also common among crocodiles.

Panja Zone Forest Officer Girish said that though injury marks were visible, only an autopsy could shed light on the exact cause of the death.

Demand for Protecting Fish:

There are allegations that some people put chemical solutions in the water to catch fish.  This they alleged could kill the school of Mahasheer fish, considered sacred by many. The public has demanded that the forest department should take action to protect the fish species.