Farmer loses right forearm in crocodile attack while bathing ox in Bilagi village, hospitalised

BAGALKOT: A farmer, who was bathing his ox in the backwaters of the Almatti dam, lost his right forearm after he was attacked by a crocodile. Luckily, he was dragged away by the ox, saving his life. The farmer is now undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bagalkot.

Dhariyappa Meti (32) had taken his ox to the backwaters to give it a bath ahead of Ayudha Puja at Honyal village in Bilagi taluk. He was holding the rope tied around the ox’s neck when the crocodile lunged at him, grabbing him right forearm.

Bilagi MLA J T Patil visited the farmer in hospital and asked Forest Department officials to ensure adquate compensation.

The ox, sensing danger, quickly moved away from the water with Dhariyappa holding on to the rope, thereby saving his life. However, Dhariyappa lost his right forearm up to the elbow.

Bilagi MLA J T Patil visited Dhariyappa in hospital and inquired about his condition. He also called up the Forest Department officials and directed them to ensure suitable compensation for the farmer.