The Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division will impose a three months' ban from May 1 to July 31 next on the entry of tourists and visitors into the Bhitarkanika National Park for causing no disturbance to the nesting and breeding of estuarine crocodiles. Ranger Akhaya Kumar Nayak of Kanika said during the ban period tourists will be restricted to roam in the crocodile infested areas at Bhitarkanika , Dangamala and Ragadapati forest blocks.
He said the ban is imposed every year during the nesting and breeding time of the crocodiles so that a tranquil environment is created. Once the reptile are disturbed during the nesting and breeding period, they become violent and attack the people in the vicinity. The female reptiles lay eggs inside the mangrove forest near the water bodies of the park area and guard the eggs till the emergence of the hatchlings from the eggs.
The forest officials will also create awareness through public address system among the locals living in the crocodile-infested rivers to remain alert. The villagers will also be asked not to venture into the water-bodies. At least 1,665 salt water (estuarine) crocodiles including three reptiles measuring more than 20 feet are in the Bhitarkanika Park.
