Mumbai: Dead crocodile found near Vihar Lake, probe launched

Remains of the Indian marsh crocodile found near Vihar Lake. Pics/By Special Arrangement

The discovery of a dead Indian marsh crocodile near Vihar Lake, close to the SGNP, has raised concerns. A resident first spotted the carcass on April 5 and alerted forest authorities, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding its death. The villager, requesting anonymity, said "The condition in which the crocodile was found raised serious concerns, and I hope a proper probe will determine the cause of death."

Officials respond

Range Forest Officer Pradip Chavan sent a team on Sunday afternoon to verify the information. Officials found that the crocodile had died outside SGNP limits, in an area under the Mumbai territorial range of the Thane forest department.

Natural death

Senior veterinarian Dr Shailesh Pethe, along with SARRP INDIA volunteers and Thane forest officials, visited the site on April 6. Dr Pethe said, "Prima facie, the death appeared natural, with no foul play suspected. A post-mortem was conducted, and the remains were disposed of as per protocol."