Tragedy struck in Gujarat’s Dabhoi area on August 31 when a 30-year-old man, Amit Poonambhai Vasava, lost his life to a crocodile attack amid severe flooding. The incident occurred as floodwaters began to recede in Vadodara.
Amit Vasava, a laborer from Rajpura, was reportedly setting a fishing net in the Orsang River when he was attacked by a crocodile. Despite attempts to flee, Vasava slipped and was dragged into the river by the predator. The crocodile, identified as a mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), is part of Vadodara’s significant crocodile population, known for their presence in the Vishwamitri River and other urban areas.
In the wake of the flood crisis, Vadodara has witnessed substantial losses, with at least 28 fatalities reported due to the flooding. Over 5,000 residents have been evacuated, and 1,200 people have been rescued from the affected areas, according to Minister Rushikesh Patel.
Public discontent has also surfaced as local MLAs and corporators faced criticism for their handling of the disaster. Residents expressed frustration with their elected representatives, accusing them of inadequate support and neglect. MLA Manisha Vakil and BJP corporator Bandish Shah, along with other officials, encountered hostile reactions from the public during their visits to flood-affected areas. Many local leaders, including Raopura MLA Balu Shukla and city BJP president Vijay Shah, were met with anger and accusations of failing to provide timely assistance.
As rescue operations continue and floodwaters recede, authorities are working to address both the immediate needs of affected residents and the broader challenges posed by the disaster.
Sources By Agencies