Mumbai: Two Nearly 11-Foot-Long Indian Rock Pythons Rescued from IIT Bombay and Released in Sanjay Gandhi National Park
On December 13, 2025, two Indian rock pythons, each measuring nearly 11 feet in length, were rescued from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay in Powai. The sighting of these large reptiles outside the H14 boys’ hostel raised concerns among students and staff, prompting immediate action from wildlife rescue teams.
Rescue Operation
Upon spotting the pythons, students and staff at IIT Bombay quickly alerted the Plants & Animals Welfare Society (PAWS) Mumbai. The rescue team arrived at the scene within seven to eight minutes, demonstrating their commitment to prompt wildlife rescue.
According to Abhijit Chavan, a member of PAWS, the pythons were notably large. One of the snakes weighed approximately 19 kg, while the other weighed around 17 kg. After their safe handling, the pythons underwent a thorough medical examination to ensure their health and well-being.
Health Check and Release
The medical examination confirmed that both reptiles were in good health, which was a relief for the rescue team. Following the health check, the pythons were released into the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Borivali, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and suitable habitat for various wildlife species.
Officials stated that SGNP provides a safe and natural environment for the pythons to thrive. The park’s lush greenery and abundant prey make it an ideal habitat for these magnificent reptiles.
Importance of Wildlife Rescue
The rescue of these pythons highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and the role of organizations like PAWS in protecting urban wildlife. As cities expand, encounters with wildlife become more common, necessitating swift and humane responses to ensure the safety of both animals and humans.
Urban areas often encroach upon natural habitats, leading to increased wildlife sightings in populated regions. It is crucial for communities to be aware of how to respond appropriately when encountering wildlife, including contacting local wildlife rescue organizations.
About Indian Rock Pythons
The Indian rock python (Python molurus) is one of the largest snake species in the world. These non-venomous constrictors are known for their impressive size and strength. They primarily inhabit forests, grasslands, and wetlands, where they can find ample food sources.
Indian rock pythons are ambush predators, relying on their camouflage to catch prey, which can include mammals, birds, and reptiles. They play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance in their habitats by controlling the populations of their prey species.
Community Involvement and Awareness
The successful rescue operation at IIT Bombay serves as a reminder of the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation. Educational programs and awareness campaigns can empower individuals to take action when they encounter wildlife in urban settings.
Local authorities and wildlife organizations can collaborate to provide resources and training for residents, ensuring that they know how to respond to wildlife sightings safely and effectively. This can include workshops on identifying local wildlife, understanding their behaviors, and learning the best practices for coexistence.
Conclusion
The rescue and release of the two Indian rock pythons from IIT Bombay into Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a positive example of wildlife conservation efforts in urban areas. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between communities and wildlife organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of both wildlife and residents.
As urban development continues to encroach on natural habitats, it is essential for individuals to remain informed and proactive in protecting the wildlife that shares our environment.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on reports from local news sources and wildlife organizations as of December 2025.
