Ananya Lohia , New Delhi -  A 13-year-old boy was killed in a horrific crocodile attack in Uttar Pradesh's Bahraich district after the reptile dragged him into the Ghaghara River while he was washing his hands and feet after working in a paddy field. The incident has sparked fresh concerns over safety along the riverbank.

The incident took place in the Baundi area. Sunil, a resident of Tikuri village, had accompanied his uncle to transplant paddy before stopping by the river on their way home. According to eyewitnesses, a crocodile suddenly emerged from the water, grabbed the boy by his leg and dragged him into the river. Despite desperate attempts by his uncle and villagers, who threw bricks and stones at the reptile, the crocodile overpowered them and disappeared into deeper waters.

After a five-hour search, villagers recovered the boy's mutilated body nearly 300 metres downstream. Forest officials said the crocodile had partially devoured the body before it was sent for a post-mortem. The district administration has announced ₹4 lakh compensation for the bereaved family. Following the tragedy, local residents have demanded stronger safety measures and regular monitoring of crocodile activity, especially after another fatal attack in the district just two weeks ago.

The incident has once again highlighted the growing threat posed by crocodile attacks in Bahraich, with residents urging authorities to take immediate steps to prevent further loss of life along the Ghaghara River.