Human-crocodile conflict rising in Chitwan

In the last fiscal year, 2023-24, crocodiles ranked the third major cause of human fatalities in the Chitwan National Park and its buffer zone, after tigers and rhinos.

Phaguna Mahato, a resident of ward 5 of Janakauli in Ratnanagar Municipality, was a cook in a Sauraha-based hotel. During the rainy season, the tourist hotel reduced its operations and Mahato was granted a summer leave. On September 16, 2023, the 47-year-old went to Janakauli Buffer Zone Community Forest near his home to collect grass for the cattle. There is a stream passing through the forest. While returning, he was suddenly attacked by a muggar crocodile (Crocodylus palustris). He died in the incident.