9-Foot Burmese Python Rescued Near Schools in Silchar, Residents Raise Safety Concerns

A large Burmese python measuring around nine feet in length was rescued from a tree near Shishu Bitan School beside Silchar Sangeet Vidyalaya on Saturday (June 6), triggering concern among local residents and school authorities.

The snake was safely rescued after a nearly one-hour operation and later handed over to the Forest Department for further observation and release into a suitable natural habitat.

According to wildlife conservationist and snake rescuer Trikal Chakraborty, local residents informed him on Saturday morning about a large python spotted on a tree branch near the school premises. He immediately reached the spot with his rescue team and assessed the situation.

Given the presence of schools in the area and the regular movement of children, the rescue team prioritised public safety before beginning the operation. After careful planning and sustained efforts, the team successfully brought the snake down from the tree.

Chakraborty identified the reptile as a Burmese python and said it was approximately nine feet long and weighed around 12 kilograms.

He stated that the Burmese python is a protected species under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and killing the animal is a punishable offence. He explained that such pythons are commonly found near wetlands and water bodies and often climb trees to bask in the sun.

While assuring residents that there was no immediate reason to panic, Chakraborty advised people not to attempt rescuing such snakes on their own. Although non-venomous, he said, Burmese pythons possess strong teeth capable of causing serious injuries and can overpower prey by constriction.

Meanwhile, a representative of Shishu Bitan School expressed concern over the condition of the area surrounding the institution. She said the python was spotted on a mango tree whose branches extend over the school premises.

According to her, a heavily overgrown area and a dumping site beside the school have remained uncleared for years. She also pointed to an uncovered municipal drain in poor condition, suggesting that the snake may have entered the area through the drain or the nearby vegetation.

The school representative said there are two primary schools and a music school in the vicinity, resulting in the daily movement of a large number of children and parents. She added that the school authorities suspect the possibility of more snakes being present in the area due to the dense vegetation.

She urged the Silchar Municipal Corporation and local administration to clear the overgrown vegetation, dumping site and drain to ensure the safety of children and residents.

The rescued python has been handed over to the Forest Department. Officials said the animal would undergo necessary health checks and observation before being released into a suitable natural environment.