Dangerous Snake Discovery in Palamu Village
A highly venomous Russell's viper, measuring approximately four feet in length, was successfully rescued from a residential area in Bhargawan village on Thursday afternoon. The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of the Chainpur police station in Palamu district, creating a wave of concern among local residents.
The Rescue Operation
The snake was discovered nestled between two plinths of a house belonging to local farmer Mohan Mishra. Upon receiving the alert, forest authorities immediately sprang into action. Forest Range Officer Rakesh Pandey led the rescue team that rushed to the location. "We rushed to the location soon after getting the information", stated Pandey. The operation proved challenging, requiring two hours of careful effort to safely capture the dangerous reptile.
Following the successful rescue, the forest department team transported the viper to a safer habitat. The snake was released into the Nawa forests, away from human settlements, ensuring the safety of both the reptile and the village community.
Understanding the Russell's Viper Threat
Officer Pandey explained the primary reason these deadly snakes venture into human habitats. "Russell’s viper comes to human households in search of rodents", he said, adding a stark warning, "Where there are rats, this deadly snake can't be far behind." This highlights a critical link between pest control and snake encounters in rural areas.
The threat is particularly acute in Palamu district, where snake-bite incidents pose a significant public health challenge. The most common venomous snakes responsible for bites in the region include:
- Cobra
- Krait
- Russell’s viper
A staff member from the Mednirai Medical College Hospital (MMCH) revealed a grim statistic, underscoring the severity of the issue. During June and July this year alone, the district recorded six snake-bite fatalities. This data points to the ongoing risk faced by residents, especially during the monsoon season when snake activity increases.
