Assam: Survivor’s tale sheds light on Russell’s Viper misconceptions in state

In a remarkable story of survival and advocacy, Dipankar Barman, a wildlife enthusiast from Bongaigaon, Assam, has emerged as a prominent voice dispelling myths about Russell’s viper, a highly venomous snake. Barman, who survived a bite from the viper, has taken to social media to educate the public about the snake's true nature and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention rather than resorting to local healers, known as Ojha or Baba.

Barman’s encounter with the viper dates back to 2016. At the age of 26, while attempting to rescue what he mistakenly believed was a baby Burmese python in the Rakhaldubi area, he was bitten by the venomous snake. Initially unaware of the gravity of the situation, it was only after experiencing intense pain and swelling an hour and a half later that Barman sought treatment at a hospital in Bongaigaon. His swift action proved crucial to his recovery, underscoring his message about the life-saving importance of prompt medical intervention.

The Russell’s viper, though venomous, is often misunderstood. Experts note that these snakes are not inherently aggressive and prefer to avoid human contact, hiding or fleeing when disturbed. However, recent months have seen a surge in alarming rumors on social media about Russell’s viper sightings in Assam. These unfounded reports, likely spread by mischievous individuals, have fueled public fear and misinformation.

Historically, the presence of Russell’s viper in Assam has been documented since the colonial era. Notably, in 1929, John Loudon reported sightings of the snake in the Brahmaputra Valley, as recorded in his 1930 journal published in the Bombay Natural History Society. Loudon’s observations confirmed the viper’s presence in the region, countering the myths that it actively pursues humans.

Environmental changes have also played a role in the viper’s increasing encounters with humans. From 2001 to 2023, Bongaigaon experienced significant deforestation, losing 254 hectares of tree cover, equating to a 1.7% decrease. This habitat loss, coupled with CO₂ emissions of 119 kilotons, has pushed wildlife, including Russell’s viper, into closer contact with human settlements.

The snake’s excellent camouflage makes it difficult to spot in the wild, often leading to confusion with non-venomous snakes like the juvenile Burmese python. Both species share similar physical traits, such as stocky, muscular bodies and brown coloration with dark spots, making proper identification crucial for safety.

Dipankar Barman continues to work in wildlife conservation, leveraging his personal experience to promote awareness and understanding of Russell’s viper. His efforts aim to reduce fear and encourage responsible actions when encountering these snakes, emphasizing that survival is possible with timely medical care.

Also read: Assam: Villagers rescue Burmese Python mistaken for Russell's Viper in Dhubri