The rise in venomous reptile activity has become a serious concern for residents of Sindh’s desert districts, particularly Tharparkar and Umerkot, as snakebite incidents continue to surge during the peak of summer.
With temperatures soaring and recent rains soaking the region from June to September, snakes and other reptiles have begun emerging from their burrows for breeding and to expel venom—posing a deadly threat to communities in the region. According to residents, such occurrences are common after rainfall during the monsoon season.
Data from the Tharparkar District Health Department reveals that nearly 200 snakebite cases have been reported in the past month and a half alone. However, efforts to treat victims have been hampered by a critical shortage of anti-venom vaccines.
Dr Khadim Samejo, a senior physician in the district, confirmed that Thar’s arid terrain is home to more than ten snake species, most of which are highly venomous. “The scarcity of anti-snakebite vaccine has made it difficult for us to cope with this emergency,” he said.
With limited access to medical aid, locals often rely on traditional methods to manage snakebites. Social activist Ram Chand Kohli explained that community members use rudimentary practices such as cutting the bite site, giving the victim purified butter to induce vomiting, and placing onions under beds or lighting fires to keep snakes away.
Meanwhile, the current season has also proven lucrative for snake charmers, who traverse the desert capturing snakes and displaying them in baskets. “People call them when a snake is spotted nearby,” said local resident Laloo Bheel, noting that these charmers are a last resort in many villages lacking healthcare infrastructure.
Residents have urged the authorities to ensure that Tharparkar Civil Hospital and other health units in the region are adequately equipped with anti-venom and other necessary resources to manage the ongoing crisis.
As the monsoon season continues, so too does the urgent need for swift and sustainable action to protect Thar’s vulnerable population from these life-threatening encounters.