Government of Kerala
SARPA Mobile App: Revolutionizing Snake Rescue and Conservation in Kerala
Snakes: Guardians of Ecological Balance
Snakes play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems and are key indicators of environmental health. As both predators and prey, they help regulate populations of rodents, insects, and other small animals, preventing overpopulation and the spread of diseases. Snakes contribute to the food chain, serving as sustenance for larger predators, thus supporting biodiversity. By controlling pest species, they indirectly protect crops and reduce the need for chemical pesticides, promoting sustainable agriculture. Understanding and conserving snake populations is essential for fostering ecosystem stability and ensuring the health of natural habitats.
Human-Snake Conflicts: A Persistent Challenge
Snakes are found across various habitats, including human-dominated areas. In Kerala, while most snakes are harmless, fewer than ten species are fatally venomous. Kerala is home to over 120 different snake species, contributing to India’s rich biodiversity of more than 340 species, all protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
India, unfortunately, holds the grim title of the snakebite capital of the world, with over 50,000 snakebite deaths annually. In Kerala, from 2017 to 2019, there were 334 reported snakebite deaths, averaging around 110 deaths per year. This figure dwarfs the human casualties from all other wild animals combined. Although fatalities decreased to 76 in 2020 and further to 40 and 42 in 2021 and 2022 respectively, the issue remains significant. Moreover, critical snakebite cases exceed 3,000 annually, highlighting the need for effective treatment and preventive measures.
SARPA mobile app: A Groundbreaking Initiative
In August 2020, Kerala implemented the “Guidelines for rescue and release of snakes from human-dominated areas by certified snake handlers,” marking the inception of Team SARPA. This pioneering initiative focuses on reptile conservation while ensuring human safety. Over three years, SARPA has become instrumental in managing human-snake interfaces, garnering widespread appreciation for its effectiveness.
Download SARPA mobile app from Play Store