Snakebite deaths sharply decline in Kerala as SARPA app marks 5 years | Today is World Snake Day

Malappuram: Deaths due to snakebites in Kerala have seen a sharp decline, according to recent data. In 2019, the state recorded 123 deaths caused by snakebites, whereas by 2024, this number has dropped to just 34. Over the past 10 years, a total of 921 people have died from snakebites in the state.

Aiming for ‘zero deaths’ due to snakebite by 2030, the Forest Department has launched various initiatives, including the ‘SARPA’ mobile app and the ‘Snake Envenomation Zero Mortality Kerala’’ project. These schemes are reportedly playing a crucial role in reducing fatalities.

At present, anti-venom treatment is available in hospitals ranging from taluk hospitals to medical colleges across the state. In 2024, initial steps were taken to ensure that all family health centres will have anti-venom readily available. For the financial year 2025, the state budget has earmarked ₹25 crore for the ‘Snakebite Death-Free Kerala’ programme.

To raise awareness, July 16 is observed as World Snake Day, with the aim of dispelling fear about snakes, promoting respect for their habitats, and preventing snakebite-related deaths.

‘SARPA’ App

The ‘SARPA’ (Snake Awareness Rescue and Protection App) mobile application, which was launched in August 2020, has now entered its fifth year of operation and has been downloaded by over 34,700 people. Social Forestry Range Forest Officers serve as district coordinators for the project.

If a snake is spotted in a potentially threatening situation, the users can upload its photograph in the SARPA app. Trained volunteers will then arrive to safely rescue and relocate the snake. Special training sessions are regularly conducted to equip volunteers with rescue skills.

Through the app, the public can also clear doubts about snake species, access information about hospitals providing anti-venom treatment, and get contact numbers of certified snake rescuers.

As of March 2025, 5,343 people have completed training and registered on ‘SARPA’. For those who are willing to have a training session will be provided by Master Trainers approved by the Forest Department. Of these, 3,061 individuals have received official certification.

In addition, training sessions are being extended to NCC cadets, CRPF personnel, doctors, nursing staff, and medical students to ensure broader community awareness and preparedness.