Boko: As the monsoon season brings about an increase in encounters with snakes, Hitesh Rabha, popularly known as Assam’s “Snake Friend” (Sarpa Bandhu), took the initiative to educate students on snake conservation and safety.
The awareness program was held at Lampara High School in collaboration with Nature’s Help Team members Bikash Boro, Pratha Partim Bharali, Om Prakash Rabha, and Jyoti Prasad Rabha, along with the school’s teaching staff.
During the session, Rabha highlighted that Assam is home to approximately 24 species of snakes, including six venomous, six slightly venomous, and the remaining non-venomous species. He stressed the importance of distinguishing between these species, as not all snakes pose a lethal threat.
Rabha has a long-standing reputation for rescuing snakes that enter homes and cause panic in the Kamrup and Goalpara districts of Assam. His dedication to snake conservation and public education earned him the title of “Sarpa Bandhu 2024,” awarded by a team of snake experts led by Sourabh Barkakati in Tezpur on World Snake Day, July 16, 2024.
Addressing the common fears associated with snake bites, Rabha advised that immediate medical attention should be sought if bitten, and emphasized that staying calm is crucial. He explained that snakes do not always inject venom with a bite, and quick action can prevent severe consequences. Taking a photograph of the snake can aid doctors in providing appropriate treatment.
Rabha also shared practical tips for avoiding snake encounters, such as using a flashlight when walking at night and sleeping under a mosquito net. He shared the importance of snakes in maintaining ecological balance and advocated for their conservation by safely relocating them to suitable habitats.
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To enhance understanding, Rabha displayed photographs of various venomous, slightly venomous, and non-venomous snakes, ensuring that both teachers and students could accurately identify them.
In addition to the event at Lampara High School, Rabha conducted a similar awareness program at Don Bosco School in Boko, furthering his mission to promote snake safety and conservation across the region.
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