Vadodara, a bustling city in Gujarat, is known for its unique inhabitants — crocodiles. During the monsoon season, it is not unusual for citizens to spot these reptiles wandering the streets. This increase in sightings relates to the Vishwamitri River, which flows through the city and is home to a growing crocodile population.
A recent crocodile census conducted by the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation, alongside the Forest Department and Vadodara Municipal Corporation, revealed that there are now 442 crocodiles in the river. This is a significant increase from 275 in 2020, showing a clear rise in numbers over just five years.
Ritesh Gahelot, a former director of the GEER Foundation, explained that the census was conducted using scientific methods, both during the day and at night. The results have been sent to the Forest Department and municipal authorities. Remarkably, despite the growing human population along the riverbanks, crocodiles have adapted well to coexist with people. Attacks on humans are extremely rare, which is a good sign for both residents and wildlife enthusiasts.
One reason for the increasing crocodile population is the minimal human interference in the river. According to Pratyush Patankar, curator of Vadodara Zoo, pollution has made the river’s water unsuitable for human use. However, it still supports fish, which, along with stray dogs and pigs near the banks, provide a steady food source for the crocodiles.
The census identified crocodile numbers in different stretches of the river:
– Akota Bridge to Dena: 220
– Kalali to Talsat: 77
– Akota Bridge to Mujmahuda: 55
– Vadsar Bridge to Kalali: 48
– Mujmahuda to Vadsar: 42
Despite the growing population, the area has faced challenges. Recently, there have been reports of crocodile deaths in the Vishwamitri River, worrying conservationists and residents. At least eight crocodiles have died since December 2024, with five deaths reported this year. Many of these cases remain unexplained, prompting concern among wildlife enthusiasts.
Local wildlife activists attribute these deaths to various factors, including pollution, entanglement in fishing nets, and disturbances from river desilting by the Vadodara Municipal Corporation. However, officials argue that the desilting work is not linked to the crocodile deaths.
The river flows through a densely populated city, which can impact the wildlife. Agneeshwar Vyas, deputy conservator of forests, noted that the crocodiles have shown remarkable resilience but acknowledged that the increase in deaths is concerning.
In 2021, a study highlighted an alarming trend: crocodile deaths rose from two in 2019 to ten in 2021. Environmental impacts, including pollution and habitat changes, have contributed to this situation. Past incidents have included crocodiles found with injuries indicating territorial fights or suspicious deaths with no outward wounds, leading to concerns of electrocution or disease.
The census and ongoing monitoring efforts aim to better understand the crocodile population and their health. The aim is not only to count the crocodiles but also to focus on the conservation of the river habitat. Ranjitsinh Devkar from the GEER Foundation emphasised that a healthy ecosystem supports all wildlife, including crocodiles.
Efforts are underway to analyse the census data, which will help inform future conservation strategies. As the crocodile population grows, it is vital to ensure that both humans and wildlife can coexist peacefully. The city of Vadodara stands as a reminder of nature’s resilience amid urban development, and the crocodiles are a key part of this unique ecosystem.