A giant python sparked panic in Charilam’s Puranbari area before forest officials safely rescued and relocated it. Villagers gathered in large numbers as the massive reptile, weighing over 100 kilograms, was secured and transported to Sepahijala Zoo’s protected forest habitat.
A massive python sighting triggered widespread panic among residents of Charilam’s Puranbari area on Monday night, drawing large crowds and prompting a rapid response from local forest authorities. The unexpected appearance of the enormous reptile disrupted the calm of the rural locality and highlighted ongoing challenges of human-wildlife interaction near forested zones.
According to eyewitnesses, the python was first spotted around 8:30 pm near the pond owned by local resident Binoy Karmakar. The site is located close to the Charilam Forest Range Office, an area known for its proximity to wildlife habitats. A group of villagers returning home from the evening market noticed an unusually large object lying still on the grassy roadside. As they approached with caution, the glow of their flashlights revealed the thick coils of a giant python resting near the edge of the pond.
Startled by the sight, the group immediately raised an alarm, shouting for help. Their cries echoed through the neighbourhood, quickly drawing dozens of residents from nearby homes. Within minutes, a large crowd had formed around the creature, with people keeping a safe distance while attempting to catch a glimpse of the rare reptile. The presence of children, elderly residents and curious onlookers added to the urgency of the situation. Some villagers attempted to shine phone lights on the python, while others urged everyone to stay away to avoid provoking the wild animal.
The matter was promptly reported to the Charilam Forest Range Office. On receiving the alert, Beat Officer Sukanta Das acted without delay. He and his team of trained forest personnel reached the location with rescue equipment and containment tools. Their swift arrival helped ease some of the tension among the gathered crowd, which had been growing larger by the minute.
Speaking to the media after the rescue, Beat Officer Das explained that such incidents are not uncommon in areas located close to sanctuaries and forested zones. “The Puranbari area lies adjacent to a wildlife sanctuary. It is common for pythons and other endangered species to wander into human settlements from the forest. These movements are natural and often occur when animals search for food, water or shelter,” he stated.
The forest team approached the reptile with caution, ensuring minimal stress to the animal while keeping bystanders at a safe distance. After assessing its position and behaviour, officials carefully managed to restrain the python using standard rescue techniques. The massive reptile was then safely placed into a large protective sack for transportation, ensuring it would not be harmed during relocation.
Villagers estimated the python’s weight to be well over 100 kilograms, a detail that underscored the scale of the reptile that had startled the community. Its impressive girth and length left many residents astonished, as such close encounters with wildlife of this size are relatively rare even in forest-fringe areas.
Beat Officer Das confirmed that the rescued python would be released into the forests of Sepahijala Zoo, a designated protected habitat where it can live safely without posing risk to human settlements. Officials emphasised that relocating the snake to a forest environment ensures both public safety and the well-being of the reptile, which is an important part of the region’s ecological balance.
Although the initial sighting sparked fear among villagers, the efficient and coordinated action by forest personnel restored calm in the area. Residents expressed relief that the situation was handled professionally without harm to any person or the animal. Many also appreciated the prompt response of the forest department, whose timely intervention prevented potential panic from escalating further.
Local authorities have advised villagers living near forest boundaries to remain alert and to immediately report any wildlife sightings to the concerned department. They also urged people not to provoke or attempt to capture wild animals on their own, stressing that only trained professionals should handle such situations.
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The incident has once again renewed discussions about human-wildlife co-existence in regions located near protected forests. As habitat overlap continues to increase, similar encounters are expected, making community awareness and quick reporting essential for ensuring safety and conservation.
