How long lives be risked as crocodile pond remains unprotected?

The historic pond adjacent to the shrine of Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali (RA) in Bagerhat, which houses a crocodile, remains unprotected despite a recent viral incident where the reptile dragged a dog into the water. Even after the incident, people of all ages, from children to the elderly step into the crocodile-infested water every day. But no effective measure has been taken by the administration or even the shrine authorities.

On April 8, the crocodile dragged an injured dog from the pond's edge into deeper water. When the video spread on social media, criticism erupted nationwide. The dog's body later surfaced in the pond. Not just this time — it is known that the crocodile has injured several people before. There have even been incidents of it tearing off a hand. Yet, even after these incidents, unrestricted public access and bathing in the pond have not stopped. No visible safety measures have been taken.

From morning to noon on Monday, April 13, this correspondent observed children playing in the water at the pond's edge. People of various ages were bathing and splashing themselves. Despite knowing about the crocodile's presence, no visible fear was observed among them.

When asked, several people said the crocodile is not currently visible. They claim they do not enter the water when the crocodile approaches the edge.

During that time, local resident Mehedi Hasan was seen at the pond. He has reportedly tamed the crocodile through his methods. At his gesture, the crocodile came to the edge and then moved away.

Mehedi Hasan told Views Bangladesh, "There is currently one crocodile in the pond. Although there were several before, those have died."

Several shopkeepers adjacent to the shrine gate said the crocodile's behaviour is not new to them. Similar incidents have occurred multiple times before. They claimed the crocodile is very fond of dogs. However, those incidents did not come to public attention because no video was captured.

They further claimed that some parties hostile to the shrine and journalists are involved in spreading the recent dog incident.

Meanwhile, khadem (caretakers) of the shrine were observed encouraging visitors to enter the pond water. They are being encouraged to enter crocodile-infested water without any warning or safety measures, which concerned citizens believe is putting visitors' lives at serious risk.

When asked about the matter, Bagerhat Sadar Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Mosammat Atia Khatun told Views Bangladesh, "There is a matter of religious faith here. Many people bathe and touch the water based on that faith. Some even take water away in bottles. Suddenly imposing a ban might not be well received by devotees."

She further said, "However, we have decided to designate a specific area for bathing or collecting water where the crocodile cannot go."

But when this decision will be implemented remains unclear. Until then, the question remains unanswered: for how long will people's lives remain at risk in the pond?