Gurugram's Serpent Savior: Woman Rescues Hundreds

Jyoti Raghavan, a 49-year-old Gurugram resident, has emerged as the city's only female snake rescuer, dedicating herself to saving hundreds of snakes. Her remarkable journey began approximately 15 years ago in Delhi when she courageously rescued a cobra, an act that solidified her life's mission. Since moving to Gurugram in 2018, she has responded to numerous sightings, often in populated areas, showcasing her commitment.

Raghavan's rescues encompass a variety of species, from cobras and rat snakes to blind snakes and Russell's kukri. Most recently, on December 28th, she successfully rescued her first python, which had been displaced by development and was later released into the Mangar forested area. This act underscores her dedication to providing safe havens for displaced wildlife within the shrinking natural spaces around Gurugram.

She passionately advocates for coexistence, stressing that snakes are vital "balance keepers" essential for controlling rodent populations and preventing ecological disruption. Raghavan emphasizes that overcoming human fear and misunderstanding is the primary challenge, urging a shift towards empathy and recognizing that these creatures share the planet. Her work, commended by environmentalists, promotes harmony between urban development and wildlife preservation.