Crocodile Drags 12-Year-Old Girl into Vishwamitri River in Vadodara's Padra

A 12-year-old girl was allegedly dragged into the swollen Vishwamitri River by a crocodile while standing near the riverbank in Medhad village of Padra taluka, Vadodara district, triggering a massive search operation by multiple rescue agencies.

The victim, Hetal Janakbhai Rathodia (12), a Class 9 student of Sarasvani Primary School, had gone to the riverbank on Sunday morning with her grandfather, elder sister and younger brother to watch the swollen river.

Crocodile Attacked Suddenly

According to preliminary information, the children were standing near the river when a large crocodile suddenly emerged from the water, grabbed Hetal by the leg and dragged her into the river before family members could react.

The incident unfolded in front of her grandfather, who immediately raised an alarm, prompting villagers to rush to the spot.

Massive Search Operation Launched

Following the incident, officials from the local administration, forest department, police and village authorities reached the scene.

Teams from the Padra and Vasna fire stations, equipped with rescue boats, launched a search operation. As the girl remained untraceable, NDRF personnel were also deployed, while drones were used to scan the river.

During the operation, rescuers reportedly spotted four to five crocodiles near the search area and had to drive them away before continuing the search. However, no trace of the girl had been found till late evening.

Forest Department Issues Warning

Forest officials urged residents to remain extremely cautious near the Vishwamitri River and other water bodies, especially during the monsoon when crocodiles frequently move into flooded areas and riverbanks.

Officials also appealed to parents not to allow children to venture near rivers and waterlogged areas during the ongoing rainy season.