Boko, Aug 17: In the heart of Assam, where the monsoon sweeps more than just water into homes, one man stands between fear and safety. Hitesh Rabha, known as Snake Friend (Sarpa Bandhu), is not just a snake rescuer; he’s a beacon of hope and knowledge.

Venomous and non-venomous alike are being washed into homes and gardens, leaving residents anxious and often leading to tragic consequences due to superstition and a lack of awareness.

“Sarpa Bandhu” Hitesh Rabha, a local hero has made it his mission to educate the community about snakes and the critical role they play in the ecosystem. Recently, Hitesh led an eye-opening awareness program at Lampara High School, in collaboration with the dedicated members of Nature’s Help Team: Bikash Boro, Pratha Partim Bharali, Om Prakash Rabha, and Jyoti Prasad Rabha, alongside the school’s teachers.

Standing before an attentive crowd of students and teachers, Hitesh shared his knowledge of Assam’s snake species. “There are around 24 types of snakes in the state,” he explained. “Of these, only six are venomous, while another six pose some threat. The rest are harmless.” His words carried weight, dispelling the widespread myth that all snakes are dangerous.

Hitesh’s dedication to snake conservation isn’t just talk. For years, he has ventured into homes across the Kamrup and Goalpara districts, rescuing snakes that have inadvertently caused terror among residents. His tireless efforts earned him the title of ‘Sarpa Bandhu 2024,’ awarded by a team of snake experts led by Sourabh Barkakati in Tezpur during World Snake Day celebrations on July 16, 2024.

During the awareness meeting, Hitesh also shared crucial advice that could save lives. “If a person is bitten by a snake, the first thing to remember is not to panic. Stay calm and go to the hospital immediately,” he urged. “A snake cannot release its venom the moment it bites. If the snake is removed quickly before it can inject its venom, it can prevent serious danger. And if possible, try to take a photograph of the snake—this can help doctors in providing the right treatment.”

Hitesh emphasized the importance of simple precautions, like carrying a flashlight when venturing outside at night and always using a mosquito net while sleeping. He reminded his audience that even after a venomous bite, a person typically has two to three hours to receive medical treatment, underscoring the importance of acting quickly but calmly.

But Hitesh’s message went beyond safety. He passionately highlighted the role snakes play in maintaining environmental balance, urging students and teachers to respect and protect them. He showed photographs of various snake species, both venomous and non-venomous, helping attendees recognize which snakes pose a real threat and which do not.

Following this successful program at Lampara High School, Hitesh took his message to Don Bosco School in Boko, where he continued to spread awareness and educate more students and staff about these misunderstood creatures.

He asks people to see these creatures for what they are: vital components of our ecosystem.

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