Overview

Snakebite deaths are preventable but common in Madhesh. A 2022 Lancet study estimated 2,700 annual deaths in the Terai – about 1,080 likely in Madhesh. Vulnerable groups, especially women and children in village huts, are at high risk during monsoon season when snakes seek higher ground.

Discrimination against Madheshi people is even seen in snakebite provision. Although 82% of snakebites happen in the Terai, 84% of treatment centres are in northern Nepal. And of the 24 snakebite centres run by the army and government, only six are fully functional – mainly due to lack of trained staff.

location

Nepal

category

Madhesh Province

The Mithila Wildlife Trust (MWT) rescues snakes that enter villages and towns, returning them safely to the wild. They also raise awareness about snakebite risks, humane snake handling, and the ‘Golden Hour’ – the first hour after a venomous bite, when antivenom is most effective. Sadly, delays that arise from visiting traditional healers often prove fatal. Snake rescues draw crowds and double as powerful education moments.

In 2024, Pipal Tree began backing MWT’s rescue and education work with a major grant from UK donor The Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust, followed by a second grant in 2025. A successful pilot training in January 2025 drew 35 participants and showed strong demand for more.

Watch Subodh Acharya of the MWT snake rescue team humanely rescue and relocate a King Cobra from a village in west Nepal.

We will expand this programme across the Terai using Will donations. Just one more way that you can help us save precious lives in south Nepal. For further guidance, just email Philip.

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