Chitwan: A total of nine male gharials (crocodiles) have been recorded in the Rapti and Narayani rivers flowing through Chitwan National Park (CNP). Of them, seven were found in the Rapti River and the remaining two in the Narayani River. Male gharials are considered rare, according to the park authorities.
According to National News Agency Nepal, CNP’s Information Officer and Conservation Officer Abinash Thapa Magar reported that a total of 366 crocodiles, including 231 in the Rapti River and 135 in the Narayani River, were recorded during the direct census this year. Last year, the total number of crocodiles in both rivers stood at 352, with 206 in the Rapti and 146 in the Narayani. This year, the number has increased in the Rapti River but decreased in the Narayani River.
Crocodiles reared at the Crocodile Breeding Centre in Kasara are regularly released into the rivers. Officials said that the rise in the total crocodile population may be attributed to increased public awareness, community conservation efforts, and initiatives taken by Chitwan National Park.