In a disturbing incident that underscores the widespread threat posed by glass-coated kite strings, even the formidable crocodiles of Vadodara's Vishwamitri River have not been spared during this year's Uttarayan festivities. The dangerous manja, known for causing injuries to birds and humans, has now inflicted harm on large reptiles, revealing the escalating environmental hazard.
Shocking Discovery by University Students
A recent video captured by students from MS University in Vadodara documented a distressing scene in the Vishwamitri River. The footage showed a kite string deeply embedded in the back of a crocodile, having sliced through its protective scutes, which are the armored scales that typically shield these reptiles. As the crocodile navigated through the water, blood was visibly oozing from the wound, indicating a significant injury.
Expert Analysis and Concerns
Professor Ranjit Devkar from the zoology department at MS University expressed his shock upon witnessing the injury. He remarked, "I was shocked as I never saw a kite string cut into a crocodile. The eight-foot reptile must have been in pain as it was a flesh wound. It shows how dangerously sharp these kite strings are." Professor Devkar and his students spotted the injured crocodile from the cable-stayed bridge during their regular bird walk in Sayajibaug, a popular area in Vadodara.
He further warned about the potential complications, noting that while crocodile wounds generally heal rapidly, the embedded string could lead to infections and, in severe cases, prove fatal. "It's a matter of concern," he emphasized, adding that he promptly informed the forest department after the crocodile disappeared back into the river, making rescue efforts challenging.
Broader Implications for Wildlife and Safety
The Vishwamitri River is a critical habitat, home to over 442 crocodiles, with a significant population residing in its urban stretches within Vadodara. This incident highlights the broader dangers of manja, which has already caused nearly 160 birds and 14 people to suffer grievous injuries in and around the city during this Uttarayan season. The sharp, glass-coated strings pose a severe risk not only during kite-flying events but also as litter that persists in the environment, threatening various species.
Authorities and environmentalists are urging increased awareness and stricter enforcement of regulations against the use of such hazardous materials. The case of the injured crocodile serves as a stark reminder of the need for community action to protect both human and animal lives from preventable harm.
