Mumbai: SGNP on alert after crocodile is spotted near picnic spot

While a visitor to the national park saw the reptile near Muggar Dam three days ago, a local informed the authorities about a large crocodile near the boating area yesterday

The recent sighting of a marsh crocodile at Muggar Dam behind the guesthouse near Lion and Tiger Safari in Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) has put the park authorities on high alert, as the spot is one of the sought after picnic locations inside SGNP during the monsoon.

Also Read: Fisherman hurt in Powai Lake crocodile attack

A mugger basks on the banks of Powai lake. File pic for representation

Elaborating the measures implemented to avert man-animal conflict, Range Forest Officer (RFO) Rajendra Pawar said, “A few days ago, we were alerted about a crocodile near the Muggar Dam by a picnicker. Not wanting to take chances, we have already deployed our men near the dam who are requesting visitors to maintain a safe distance form it.”

Read Story: Croc attack: Thrice bitten, not shy

Steps taken
Besides deploying guards near the dam and increased patrolling, Pawar added that signboards would be installed near all the streams in the park, warning visitors about the possible presence of a crocodile in the water body.

Official speak
Speaking to mid-day, another officer claimed that yesterday a local informed them about spotting a large crocodile near the boating area.

“We have instructed all the guards to click pictures of the reptile so that we have photographic evidence,” the officer added.

Authorities are also investigating whether the crocodile spotted in the tourism zone had strayed from Tulsi lake in Powai.

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Number of muggers recorded at Vihar lake during 2015 census

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