New Town, Kolkata – In response to the recent spell of rain, New Town authorities and residents’ welfare associations (RWAs) have taken proactive measures to minimize the risk of snakebites. Teams from the New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) have initiated a campaign to clear bushes, overgrown weeds, and other potential snake habitats across the area.
Recognizing that overgrown vegetation provides hiding spots for snakes, NKDA officials have instructed the clearance teams to exercise caution during their operations. “Overgrown bushes and weeds provide cover for snakes. We have asked our teams to be extra vigilant and careful while removing them,” stated a senior NKDA official.
Starting from Monday, NKDA teams have begun the process of spraying carbolic acid and bleaching powder in identified areas. The selection of areas was based on a vulnerability mapping exercise conducted in New Town, categorizing places where snake sightings are frequent. “We have started with the places that have been categorized as high risk zones. This will continue till the onset of winter,” the official added.
Housing complexes within the area have also joined the initiative. At Uniworld City in Action Area III, housekeeping staff are actively involved in spraying carbolic acid and bleaching powder. The complex has even designated trained snake catchers to ensure the safety of the residents. Over the monsoon season, several snakes were captured and handed over to the forest department.
Supriyo Ghosh, the RWA secretary at Uniworld City, emphasized their community-wide effort, stating, “We have over 300 staff, and everyone has been briefed on what to do after spotting a snake. We are regularly interacting with the residents through our WhatsApp group.”
Rosedale Garden, situated opposite New Town’s Karigori Bhavan, is also taking similar measures. Rajna Basu, the RWA president at Rosedale, highlighted their vigilance, saying, “We are spraying carbolic acid and keeping an eye out on vulnerable places in our complex.”
The collaborative drive undertaken by New Town’s authorities and its communities underscores their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the face of potential snakebite incidents. As the campaign persists, it serves as a reminder of the proactive efforts being made to create a secure living environment for all.
