Bhagalpur: A spate of crocodile attacks has heightened panic in flood-affected pockets of Bhagalpur, with residents in Nathnagar block reporting that a large gharial bit at least 7–8 people as they waded through inundated lanes toward a relief camp on Sunday morning. Eyewitnesses from Ward-1 said the incident occurred near Lalochak and Budhuchak when a group of displaced villagers attempted to reach the Mahashay Deohri flood shelter through waist-deep water.
Locals described the animal as significantly large, claiming its mouth alone was “bigger than a hand,” and said they managed to drive it away by striking at the water and kicking to create distance during the commotion. Among those injured were women and 2–3 children, according to residents, who warned that continued movement of wildlife into submerged residential areas could lead to a more serious tragedy if containment measures are delayed.
Seven panchayats in Nathnagar are facing severe inundation, forcing people to move on foot with belongings and livestock as road access remains cut off in several stretches. Local accounts reflect mounting frustration over prolonged waterlogging, fragile connectivity, and the added risk of aquatic animals entering villages as river levels remain high.
Revenue officials said the administration has taken note of the attack, with Nathnagar Circle Officer Rajneesh Kumar confirming he has informed the Sadar SDO and that attempts will be made to capture the gharial, while the Forest Department has also been alerted. The district has already activated flood-relief arrangements at shelters across Bhagalpur, but residents in hard-hit blocks continue to seek stronger protection measures and faster wildlife response as rivers remain in spate this week.
