'Don't Kill Snakes' campaign in Vizag promotes snake conservation
Visakhapatnam:Kiran Rokkam, a dedicated snake conservationist, led an awareness campaign in Visakhapatnam on Saturday to advocate for the protection of snakes. With the message "Don't Kill Snakes," the campaign aimed to educate the public on the vital role snakes play in the ecosystem and encourage a more compassionate approach toward these often-misunderstood creatures.
Held near the GVMC Gandhi statue, the awareness program attracted attention to the common issue of human-snake encounters in urban areas. Kiran shared his experiences rescuing snakes—averaging five to six rescues each month in Visakhapatnam. He emphasized the dangers faced by snakes when they enter human settlements. Fearing for their safety, many residents respond by attacking snakes with sticks, often causing severe injuries. Kiran’s intervention helps save these animals, providing them with medical care and rehabilitation. Once healed, he returns them to their natural habitats.
During a recent rescue operation, Kiran saved several pythons, which had been injured during human interactions. Following treatment by a GVMC veterinary doctor, the pythons made a full recovery. Kiran then released them back into the wild, specifically at the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, after ensuring they were fit for release.
As part of the awareness initiative, Kiran also conducted an educational session for local students near the Gandhi statue. The session focused on the ecological importance of snakes, explaining how they help maintain balance in the environment by controlling pest populations. Students were informed about the potential dangers of harming snakes and the long-term benefits of coexisting with wildlife.
Kiran’s tireless work in rescuing and rehabilitating snakes has made a significant impact on changing public attitudes toward these reptiles. By educating the community and highlighting the importance of snakes in environmental conservation, Kiran is helping foster a more harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife in Visakhapatnam. His efforts not only save lives but also contribute to broader conservation goals, encouraging a sustainable coexistence with nature.
