Maharashtra: Crocodile Safely Captured From Akluj Water Supply Lake
Maharashtra: Crocodile Safely Captured From Akluj Water Supply Lake
Akluj, Solapur, 9 August 2025: In a coordinated operation this morning, the Solapur Forest Department and RESQ Charitable Trust successfully captured a Mugger (Crocodylus palustris) from the Akluj Water Supply Lake, a critical drinking water source for the town and its surrounding areas.
The operation was carried out under directives issued by the Chief Wildlife Warden on 8 July 2025 to the Chief Conservator of Forests, Pune Circle, and the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Solapur Division. The instructions emphasised minimising stress to the animal and completing the capture before 31 August 2025.
Ashish Thakre (IFS), Chief Conservator of Forests, Pune Circle, Maharashtra Forest Department, said “While it is uncertain how the animal found its way into this lake, it has reportedly been residing there for several months. Its capture and relocation was requested in light of upcoming construction to expand the lake’s capacity. Following a preliminary site assessment by the local forest department, experts from the RESQ CT team recommended lowering the water level to enable expedited capture operations.”
Kulraj Singh (IFS), Deputy Conservator of Forests, Solapur Division, Maharashtra Forest Department, further added “The Water Supply and Sanitation Department promptly responded by pumping out the water as requested, allowing the team to confirm the crocodile’s presence and analyze its frequented areas during a follow-up visit. Three trap cages were strategically placed on 2 August 2025, leading to today’s successful capture.”
Neha Panchamiya, Founder and President of RESQ Charitable Trust, said:
“This morning, the crocodile was found secured in one of the traps. The animal is currently being transported to the Wildlife Transit Treatment Centre in Bavdhan, Pune, for a physical examination and health screening. Capturing a crocodile in a large, open waterbody is always a challenge. It requires patience and the ability to adapt plans as conditions change. The cooperation between the Forest Department, the Water Supply and Sanitation Department, and our team was key to ensuring the animal’s safety during this complex operation.”
The crocodile’s eventual release will be planned in a suitable natural habitat, as decided by the Maharashtra Forest Department.
