NEW DELHI: Snakebite fatalities in India are estimated at 46,000 to 60,000 annually, the highest in the world. States such as Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, Odisha, and Maharashtra are currently the most prone to snakebite deaths.
However, climate change may alter this risk. A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases notes that the geographic distribution of venomous snakes in India could shift toward the Northern and Northeastern states in the coming decades.
The research highlights that four venomous snakes—commonly known as the “Big Four”, are responsible for most snakebite deaths in India. These include the Indian Cobra, the Common Krait, the Russell’s Viper, and the Saw-Scaled Viper.
Using predictive models, the study visualised both the current and potential future distribution of these species under different climate scenarios.
In addition, regional socioeconomic and public health data were analysed to create a snakebite risk index for Indian districts and states projected over the next 50 years.
According to the authors, “Climate change is altering snake species’ geographic ranges, resulting in expansions, contractions, or shifting ranges. Such changes may increase human-snake interactions across rural and urban areas, presenting new challenges for public health and medical management.”
Despite these findings, the study notes that the actual risk posed by shifting snake populations remains under-researched. Data gaps, the challenges of tracking snake movement in vast rural areas, and the additional effects of land use change, urbanisation, and habitat degradation limit the accuracy of predictive models.
The authors emphasise, “This is the first study in India to integrate climate-based species distribution models with socioeconomic vulnerability and healthcare capacity. It shows that climate change is not just an environmental crisis, but also a looming public health crisis.”
Without urgent intervention, India’s snakebite risk may rise further, threatening the lives of both people and animals. Alongside awareness campaigns, stronger healthcare preparedness and policy measures will be critical in reducing this growing danger.