Anantnag: Panic has gripped residents in parts of south Kashmir after reports surfaced of a “crocodile-like” creature being spotted in the Dar Khund canal stretching from Bijbehara to Srigufwara. A video purportedly showing the species — “seemingly resembling a crocodile”—has gone viral on social media, raising concerns and anxiety among the local population.
The Wildlife department has also launched a search operation in the area to identify and locate the creature. Following a preliminary investigation and analysis of the viral footage, wildlife experts have suggested that the animal in question may actually be a Honey Badger (Ratel) or an Otter, both of which are known to inhabit in certain regions of Kashmir.
According to Suhail Ahmad Wagay, Warden, Wildlife South Kashmir, the possibility of a real crocodile existing in the region is highly unlikely. “Crocodiles cannot survive in cold waters and the climatic conditions of south Kashmir,” he explained.
The Wildlife department has urged the public to not panic or fall prey to unverified information circulating online. “Our teams are patrolling the area continuously, and we expect to identify and contain the specie soon,” the department stated.
Officials have also appealed to social media users to avoid sharing unverified images or videos, warning that such actions may unnecessarily spread fear and misinformation among the public.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have assured that appropriate action will be taken to ensure public safety.
