Daijiworld Media Network – Beltangady

Beltangady, Oct 22: The sacred Netravati river, known as one of India’s most revered rivers, has once again drawn attention—this time for a reason of concern. Recently recognized as having the purest water among Karnataka’s rivers, Netravati flows through several holy sites including Pajiradka Sadashiva, Sadashiva Surya, Dharmasthala, Inoli Somanatheshwara, Nandavara Sri Vinayaka, Karinjeshwara, and Sahasralingeshwara.

However, a crocodile has been sighted along the riverbank, causing anxiety among devotees and locals. The reptile was spotted resting on the sandy shore near the confluence of the Mrutyunjaya river and Netravati river, close to the temple area. Forest department personnel visited the site and carried out an inspection. Locals also captured videos of the crocodile moving around the area at night.

The incident took place near Pajiradka Sadashiveshwara Temple in Kalmadka village of Beltangady taluk, where the river confluence is considered highly sacred. Pilgrims often believe that bathing in the Netravati is an act of great spiritual merit. However, the unexpected presence of the crocodile has led to fear and concern among the public.

The forest department has advised visitors and residents living along the riverbanks to exercise caution, especially as crocodile sightings have been reported in multiple stretches of both Netravati and Mrutyunjaya rivers in recent days. Authorities have also urged the public to avoid bathing in the river until the animal is captured.

Devotees have appealed to the authorities for immediate action to safely capture and relocate the crocodile, fearing that if it reaches the temple bathing ghats, it could lead to tragic incidents at these revered pilgrimage centres.