Khapa Correspondent The Khapa Forest Division distributed snake-rescue equipment to volunteers in the Khapa forest range on Thursday to promote safer rescues and reduce human-wildlife conflict. Vijay Gangawane, RFO, Khapa, handed over snake-rescue hooks, rescue bags and headlamps to snake rescuers Daddu Ganvir, Mayur Kanoje and Rajat Gupta from Khaparkheda, and Vishal Shende and Prem Khadse from the Khapa range. The department stressed that snakes found in residential areas must be rescued without injury and released into their natural habitats. Rescuers were advised to prioritise the safety of themselves, residents and the reptiles, and avoid handling snakes for entertainment, public display or stunts. Residents were urged not to attempt to catch or kill snakes found near their homes, but to seek help from trained rescuers working under Forest Department guidance.