A 36-year-old man has tragically died in Bengaluru, India, after being bitten by a highly venomous Russell's viper, a incident that has sent shockwaves through the community and prompted urgent warnings from local authorities.
The victim, identified as Sampath, was reportedly bitten by the snake on Saturday. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, he succumbed to the venomous bite. His death has been officially confirmed by the district's Deputy Commissioner.
Authorities Issue Stern Warning to Public
In the wake of this tragic event, the district administration has issued a crucial advisory, urging extreme caution. They have specifically warned the public against attempting to kill or capture snakes, a common reaction that dramatically increases the risk of being bitten.
The advisory stated, "The public is hereby informed that Russell's Viper (Kandati) snakes are highly venomous. In case of sighting, do not try to kill or go near the snake. Please immediately inform the Forest Department officials."
A Wider Urban Wildlife Problem Emerges
This fatal encounter is not an isolated incident but part of a larger, more worrying trend in the region. The area has recently seen a significant increase in reports of crocodile sightings, particularly in lakes and water bodies surrounding Bengaluru.
Local officials have confirmed that these reptiles have been spotted in at least five major lakes, indicating a growing overlap between urban human populations and potentially dangerous wildlife. This encroachment is raising serious concerns about public safety and the management of urban ecosystems.
Expert Advice and the Path Forward
Wildlife experts emphasise that the key to coexistence is awareness and professional intervention. The public is advised to maintain a safe distance from any wild animal and to immediately contact the relevant forest or wildlife authorities, who are trained to handle such situations safely.
This tragic death underscores the critical need for robust public awareness campaigns and efficient emergency response systems to prevent further loss of life in India's rapidly expanding urban centres.
