Kathmandu, July 16, 2025 – On this World Snake Day, conservationists and health experts in Nepal are uniting voices to highlight a twofold challenge: protecting the country’s diverse snake species while addressing the deadly reality of snakebites, especially in rural areas.
Snakes: Friends of the Ecosystem
Nepal is home to 89 species of snakes, of which 17 are venomous. These reptiles play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling rodent populations and protecting agricultural crops. However, habitat loss, the illegal pet trade, and fear-driven killings continue to threaten their survival.
Environmental groups across the country are advocating for awareness programs that promote peaceful coexistence with snakes. Events like the Nepal Snake Festival and community education initiatives have helped shift perceptions, especially among youth and farmers.
Snakebites: A Silent Public Health Emergency
Despite their ecological importance, snakes also pose a significant threat to human health in Nepal. Each year, an estimated 20,000 to 40,000 snakebite cases are reported, resulting in up to 3,000 deaths-most of them in the Terai and remote regions where access to timely medical care is limited.
The Ministry of Health and Population, in line with WHO’s 2030 target, is expanding snakebite treatment centers beyond the plains to hill districts, including Kathmandu. Government hospitals now stock anti-venom vials and are training healthcare workers under updated national snakebite management guidelines.
Towards Coexistence and Safety
Community efforts remain central to reducing both snakebite fatalities and snake killings. Radio campaigns, school outreach, and local health training programs are teaching people how to avoid snake encounters, respond to bites, and identify venomous species.
On World Snake Day, experts are calling for a balanced approach:
- Respect snakes for their ecological role,
- Stay alert and educated to avoid harm, and
- Strengthen emergency response systems to save lives.
Creating a safe environment-for both people and snakes-is not just possible. It’s essential.
