More Than 20 Buffaloes Caught In Strong Mahanadi Current Near Cuttack

Bhubaneswar: More than 20 buffaloes were caught in the strong current of the Mahanadi near Gate No. 77 of the Jobra barrage in Cuttack on Saturday, triggering a rescue operation by the Fire Services.

The incident came to light after a herd of buffaloes was spotted struggling in the fast-flowing river. A team of Cuttack Fire Services rushed to the spot and launched efforts to rescue the animals.

However, the high water flow and strong current hampered the operation. More than an hour after the buffaloes were first spotted in the river, the rescue team was yet to bring them to safety, officials said.

Visuals from the spot showed the animals being carried downstream by the force of the current as rescuers attempted to reach them.

The circumstances under which the buffaloes entered the river remain unclear. Officials were also yet to ascertain the ownership of the herd or determine whether the animals were accidentally swept into the river.

A large number of people gathered near the Jobra barrage after news of the incident spread, with many watching the rescue efforts.

The Fire Services personnel continued their operation amid challenging river conditions, with efforts focused on bringing the stranded buffaloes to safety.

Reports last received said the Fire Services people had not been able to trace the herd till the evening.