Sunil Chadha
DHARAMSHALA: The hill state of Himachal Pradesh, known for its rich wildlife, has recorded a historic first — the successful rescue of a King Cobra, the world’s most venomous snake.
The reptile, measuring 10 feet in length, was safely captured near an agricultural field in Sirmaur district with the help of the Forest Department and expert snake catchers. The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department has officially confirmed the rescue.
Panic in Sirmaur as King Cobra spotted
The massive snake was first sighted in a wheat field in the Girinagar forest range of Sirmaur, sending shockwaves among local villagers.
Fearing for their safety, the residents immediately alerted the Forest Department.
A team led by Range Officer Surendra Sharma, along with snake catcher Bhupendra and officials from the Simbalbara National Park range, swiftly arrived at the location.
Historic rescue operation in Girinagar Range
Divisional Forest Officer Aishwarya Rai of Paonta Sahib took to social media to announce the successful rescue, emphasising its significance.
“For the first time, a King Cobra has been rescued in the Girinagar Range of Himachal Pradesh. Our dedicated range officer Surendra Sharma, along with the Simbalbara Range staff, carried out this important task in the Kotri Byas area. The majestic snake has been safely released back into the wild,” she stated.
Rare sighting in Himachal, third appearance on record
Although this is the first recorded rescue, King Cobras have been spotted in Himachal Pradesh on two previous occasions, all within Sirmaur district.
Given its proximity to Uttarakhand’s forested regions, Sirmaur provides a suitable habitat for the species. The reptile was earlier sighted in June 2021 and October 2023 in locations such as Thandi (Malgi) and Jungleot village near Girinagar.
The King Cobra is the world’s largest venomous snake, capable of growing up to 13 feet in length. Its venom contains a deadly combination of neurotoxic, hemotoxic and cytotoxic elements.
A single bite can release up to 420 mg of venom, making it one of the most dangerous reptiles in existence.
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