Jammu, Sept 23: In an extraordinary wildlife rescue operation, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district captured a massive python weighing nearly 55 kilograms on Tuesday, drawing the attention of villagers and officials alike.
The dramatic rescue unfolded in Manpur village of Nowshera tehsil, where anxious residents had spotted the giant reptile and promptly alerted the local police and the wildlife department. Responding swiftly, a joint team rushed to the site and began a carefully coordinated effort to secure the python, which measured an astonishing 4.5 metres in length.
According to wildlife official Rajesh Kumar, the python had earlier preyed upon a jackal and swallowed it whole. However, under stress, the reptile later regurgitated its kill, which added to the urgency of the rescue operation. “The animal was in a highly stressed condition, but after hours of sustained effort, it was safely captured,” Kumar confirmed.
The incident created a stir in the area, with many villagers witnessing the rare spectacle. The successful capture not only averted potential danger to locals but also ensured the protection of the reptile, which is considered an important part of the ecological balance. Officials have confirmed that the python will be released back into its natural forest habitat, far from human settlements, once it is declared fit.
Authorities lauded the quick coordination between the villagers, police, and the wildlife department. “Such timely reporting and collaborative action not only ensure human safety but also prevent harm to endangered wildlife,” an official noted, adding that awareness among communities living close to forest areas is vital for harmonious coexistence.
Wildlife experts highlighted that python sightings in Rajouri are rare but not unprecedented, as the region’s forests provide a suitable habitat for these reptiles. The event has once again underscored the need for conservation awareness and the importance of protecting biodiversity in Jammu and Kashmir.