Nagpur district faced a severe public health crisis in 2025, with at least 17 people losing their lives to snake bites. The year saw a total of 186 reported snake bite incidents, underscoring a persistent and deadly threat, particularly in rural and peri-urban regions of the area.
Demographics and Deadly Patterns
Data compiled by the Wildlife Welfare Society reveals that working-age adults bore the brunt of this menace. Individuals in the 21-60 age group accounted for the highest number of bites at 134 cases. This was followed by 37 cases among children and youth aged 1-20 years, and 15 cases among seniors above 61.
The fatality figures followed a similar tragic pattern. Of the 17 deaths, 13 victims were in the 21-60 age bracket. Two deaths each were recorded among those below 20 and above 61 years.
Key Culprits and Seasonal Surge
Certain snake species proved to be more lethal than others. Cobra and viper bites emerged as the most fatal, causing seven and eight deaths respectively. Krait bites were responsible for two fatalities.
A month-wise analysis points to a clear seasonal danger. Fatalities peaked during the monsoon and post-monsoon months. November was the deadliest month, accounting for five deaths alone. This was followed by August and September, with three fatalities each.
Expert Insight: The Critical Delay in Treatment
Nitish Bhandakkar, secretary of the Wildlife Welfare Society, identified delayed medical intervention as the single biggest factor behind the deaths. "In most fatal cases, patients reach hospitals very late," Bhandakkar stated. He explained that many victims waste precious time trying home remedies or herbal treatments instead of seeking immediate professional care.
"Snake bite deaths occur due to different circumstances, but late arrival for proper medical care is a common thread," he added. Bhandakkar stressed that the solution lies solely in immediate hospital treatment and completely avoiding unscientific first-aid practices.
Highlighting the society's ongoing efforts, Bhandakkar mentioned awareness campaigns, especially targeting children. These initiatives include distributing bicycles in some areas to help reduce emergency response times. The society's awareness booklet documents real-life incidents and consistently drives home one vital message: do not delay treatment and avoid herbal remedies.
The data from Nagpur serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing public health challenge posed by snake bites in India. It underscores the urgent need for continued community education on the importance of swift medical response to save lives.
