VISAKHAPATNAM: A 42-year-old snake catcher Rokkam Kiran Kumar, hailing from an agricultural joint family, developed a keen interest in snakes during his childhood.
While playing in the fields, his parents and family members often warned him to be cautious of these reptiles. However, these warnings only fueled his curiosity and fascination.
As time passed, Kiran’s fascination evolved into a deep affection for snakes, prompting him to pursue snake catching as a profession after completing his degree. His journey into this field was largely self-taught, as he learned various techniques independently.
On January 1, 2014, Kiran received an official licence for snake catching from Visakhapatnam Zoo Curator Ramalingeswarao, Chief Forest Officer Barath Kumar, and Chief Conservator of Forest (WL) & Chief Wildlife Warden of Andhra Pradesh, AV Joseph.
Following this achievement, Kiran established the ‘Snake Saver Society,’ an organisation dedicated to training individuals across Andhra Pradesh in the art of snake catching. Currently, his team consists of 18 dedicated staff members based in Visakhapatnam.
To date, Kiran and his team has rescued around 35,000 reptiles and have accumulated over 22 years of experience in the field.
Kiran Kumar and his team are often called upon at all hours to rescue snakes from various locations, including Kommadi, Rushikonda, Madhurawada, Vepagunta, Narava, Scindia, Gajuwaka, Pedagantyada, Anakapalle, Lankelapalem, Aganampudi, and the nearby hill regions.
After each rescue, they inform forest officials, who register the catch and release the snakes in designated forest areas such as the Kanithi Reservoir, Mangalapalem, and Pedagantyada.
Before releasing the snakes into the wild, Kiran ensures that he educates those who are interested, especially individuals who are fearful of snakes. He also conducts awareness camps for farmers, industry workers, hospital staff, and students.
Kiran said, “Before releasing the snakes, I educate people who are panicking, to help them understand the importance of snakes in the ecosystem.”
Despite his dedication, Kiran Kumar faces significant challenges. One of the primary concerns is the lack of immediate first-aid treatment for snake bites.
In case of a bite, they often lose their time travelling to government hospitals, as private hospitals charge exorbitant fees for first-aid services, ranging from Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000.
This financial burden is a major concern, as Kiran explained: “Without insurance, I worry about the future of my family. If something goes wrong, my family will be left helpless.”
Kiran has urged the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) officials and the District Collector, to provide at least an outsourced job for his team within GVMC as part of a snake-catching rescue initiative, or access to health insurance from the government. Additionally, he has requested a snake rescue vehicle, a ‘Snake Help Desk,’ and a designated place to keep the rescued snakes.
At present, due to a lack of space, Kiran takes the snakes home, which causes concern for his children and other family members. Kiran also highlighted the need for better support and resources from the forest department to equip his team with the necessary tools for snake rescues. Despite the numerous challenges he faces, his commitment to rescuing snakes and educating the public about these often-misunderstood creatures remains unwavering.
His work not only helps protect snakes but also contributes to the safety and well-being of the communities in Visakhapatnam and beyond.
Kiran continues to inspire others with his dedication and love for snakes, showing that with passion and persistence, one can make a real difference in both wildlife conservation and public awareness.
