Crocodile attacks fisherman at Powai lake in Mumbai

Residents said cleaning work carried out at the Powai Lake to remove water hyacinths has disturbed the reptile’s habitat

A fisherman from Tirandaz village near IIT Bombay sustained severe injuries after he was attacked by a crocodile while fishing in Powai Lake last Thursday.

Residents said cleaning work carried out at the Powai Lake to remove water hyacinths has disturbed the reptile’s habitat.

Babu Bhure, 50, was admitted to Rajawadi municipal hospital, Ghatkopar, where doctors operated on his bruised legs.

“After we heard his scream, we ran to the edge of the lake to find that a crocodile had attacked him. We started pelting stones at the crocodile. The crocodile finally let go of Bhure’s leg after we made a lot of noise,” said the fisherman.

“Bhure had suffered a severe muscle tear. We operated on the legs and he was put on intravenous antibiotics,” said Dr Prajakta Goswamy, medical officer, Rajawadi municipal hospital.

Residents said cleaning work carried out at the Powai Lake to remove water hyacinths has disturbed the reptile’s habitat.

“Safety measures such as meshing or fencing around have not been adhered to while cleaning the lake,” said Elsie Gabriel, a Powai resident.

According to the Maharashtra State Angling Association, there are 40 crocodiles currently in the lake. Local fishermen use tyres and nets to catch fish in the lake.