Written By: Achalendra Katiyar | NavbharatTimes.com • 13 Nov 2025, 9:29 PM

Vadodara: Panic spread across Vadodara’s Dhaniyavi area on Thursday after residents spotted a large python. Acting swiftly on the alert, the Forest Department, along with volunteers from the Life With Wildlife Foundation, launched a rescue operation. In an impressive display of skill and coordination, the team successfully captured the massive snake in just 22 seconds.

Vadodara, often referred to as the Crocodile City due to the presence of a large number of crocodiles in the Vishwamitri River, is no stranger to wildlife sightings. However, the appearance of a giant python near a residential settlement created serious concern among the locals.

Rescue Operation Lasted Only 22 Seconds

According to Life With Wildlife Foundation, the python—approximately seven feet long—was located and captured with remarkable ease. The rescue was carried out by Saurabh (22) and Dhruv (19), both trained wildlife rescuers.

The duo, assisted by two other team members, subdued the python barehanded without causing harm to the animal or themselves. Saurabh, who has been rescuing wildlife for five years, is associated with the organization while also managing his family business. Dhruv, meanwhile, continues his studies while actively participating in rescue missions.

Photographs from the spot show the rescuers holding the python securely as villagers watched in relief.

Python Handed Over to Forest Department

After the capture, the team handed the python over to the Forest Department, which later released it in a safe, suitable habitat. Saurabh said local residents were frightened upon spotting the reptile, but timely action helped avoid any mishap.

He added that this was not the first python sighting in Dhaniyavi. A few years ago, an 11-foot-long python had also been rescued from the same area. The village lies close to the busy Delhi–Mumbai Highway (NH-48), making wildlife sightings relatively common.

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