Fearless and Unrecognised: Manzoor Ahmad rescues over 1,000 snakes in 27 years

Ganderbal, Oct 5: In Ganderbal, where fear of snakes runs deep, Manzoor Ahmad Reshi has become a household name for his fearless work in rescuing snakes. A daily wager in the Wildlife Department for the past 27 years, Manzoor has rescued over a thousand snakes since 2014, saving them from homes, schools, offices, gardens, and even toilets, and safely returning them to the wild.

Despite the stigma and widespread fear surrounding snakes, Manzoor has built credibility and trust among local communities through his continued rescue efforts. Residents now call on him whenever snakes are spotted, confident in his expertise and calm approach. “Most of the snakes I rescue are rat snakes, but I once rescued a Levantine viper from a residential house in Ganderbal. It took an hour, but I safely released it back into the wild,” he recalled.

Manzoor’s passion for wildlife and snake rescue began while serving in the department and participating in trekking and wildlife operations. Fascinated by experts, he pursued self-learning on snake behaviour and safe handling, which laid the foundation for his skills as a rescuer. Over the years, he has also worked to educate the public on snake safety and the importance of preserving wildlife, earning widespread recognition for his commitment to conservation.

He has embraced social media, particularly Facebook, as a tool to raise awareness about snakes. With over 71,000 followers, Manzoor regularly posts videos of his rescues, highlighting his calm handling in challenging situations. These posts not only showcase his skill but also teach communities how to safely respond to snake encounters and avoid harming these creatures unnecessarily. He emphasises that contacting trained professionals is the right course of action when encountering snakes.

Manzoor’s efforts are not limited to snakes. Locals have appreciated him for rescuing other wildlife, including porcupines. Yet, despite his decades-long service and the lives he has saved, he awaits formal recognition from the government.

Manzoor said, “I go for rescues whenever I get calls. Most rescued snakes are rat snakes, but every rescue requires patience and care. I am committed to helping both humans and wildlife coexist safely.”

Manzoor Ahmad’s story is a testament to courage, compassion, and dedication. In a society where fear often leads to harm for these misunderstood creatures, his work bridges the gap between humans and wildlife, educating communities and saving lives—one snake at a time.