The Rajnagar mangrove (forest) and wildlife division has imposed a three-month ban from May 1 to July 31 on the entry of tourists and visitors into the Bhitarkanika National Park in view of the nesting season of the estuarine crocodiles.
Kanika Ranger Akhaya Kumar Nayak said during the ban period, the tourists swarming over the crocodile-infested areas will be restricted at Bhitarkanika , Dangamala and Ragadapati forest blocks.
Nayak said the prohibition order is imposed on the tourists every year for safety of the visitors as well as the crocodiles as once the reptiles are disturbed they grow violent. Besides, a majority of attacks by crocodiles occurred during this nesting and breeding season, the Ranger stated.
As many as 1,682 estuarine crocodiles, including reptiles measuring more than 20 feet, are living in Bhitarakanika, sources said.