Panic at Dharmapuri as crocodile spotted in Godavari during Sravanamasam rituals

A crocodile sighting in the Godavari river near Dharmapuri temple created panic among devotees performing Sravanamasam rituals. Authorities believe the reptile was washed downstream by rising waters and have urged caution

Jagtial: Devotees taking a holy dip in the Godavari river near the Dharmapuri temple town on Saturday were left panic-stricken after a crocodile appeared on a rock in the middle of the river.

With Sravanamasam rituals underway, large numbers of devotees have been thronging the riverbanks at Dharmapuri to offer prayers and perform sacred baths.

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Eyewitnesses said many devotees were in the water when the crocodile surfaced on a rock nearby, causing sudden panic and forcing people to rush to safety.

Authorities suspect the reptile may have been carried downstream by rising floodwaters, as water levels in the Godavari have increased following continuous rainfall in recent days.

While no official advisory has been issued yet, devotees have been urged to exercise caution while entering the river.