Nepalgunj: A census of the endangered gharial crocodiles has commenced in the Rapti River in Banke.

According to Mandip Pangeni, the Information Officer of Banke National Park, the count started in the Kusum area of the district.

The monitoring team includes park officials and two community scientists who have been mobilized for the task, Pangeni confirmed.

The Kusum, Ageya, and Shivakhola regions of the Rapti River are recognized as key habitats for the gharials.

Last year, 14 gharial crocodiles were released into the Rapti River after being transported from Chitwan to enhance conservation efforts.