4 Killed in Snakebites in Odisha in a Day, Experts Urge Caution During Monsoon

The two incidents were reported from Rourkela and Bonai in Sundargarh district, with all four victims reportedly bitten by snakes while they were sleeping at their homes.

In a tragic incident at Tileimal village under Tikayatpali police limits in Bonai, a grandfather and his grandson died after being bitten by a snake while they were asleep.

The victims were rushed to Bonai hospital, where doctors declared them brought dead.

In another incident, a seven-year-old boy and his 10-year-old sister died after they were reportedly bitten by a snake at their home in Hatioda village under Lathikata police limits in Rourkela late on Sunday night.

The siblings were taken to Rourkela Government Hospital, but doctors declared them brought dead.

Snake Helpline members advised people to be more cautious during the monsoon. “Snakes are more likely to enter human settlements as rainwater inundates or disrupts their natural habitats during the monsoon. People need to avoid sleeping on the floors during this time. Besides, they must ensure they leave no passages for the reptiles into their hoses,” they said.

Experts advised residents, particularly those living in rural and low-lying areas, to take precautions to prevent snakes from entering their homes.

“People should seal cracks, holes and other possible entry points around houses and use wire mesh where necessary. Keeping the surroundings clean and free of clutter can also reduce places where snakes may hide,” said Dr M Behera, of Hi-Tech Medical College and Hospital, Bhubaneswar.

Residents are advised to be particularly careful in dark and undisturbed areas, including underneath beds and cupboards and behind household appliances.

According to snakebite expert and Snake Helpline Honorary Warden Shubhendu Mallik, measures to control frogs and other prey species around homes can also help reduce the likelihood of snakes being attracted to residential premises.