Dasharathpur (Jajpur): Even as floodwaters continue to inundate villages under Dasharathpur block in Odisha's Jajpur district, residents are now battling another serious threat—snakebites and encounters with other venomous reptiles.

Flooding caused by the overflowing Baitarani River and its tributary, the Kani River, has submerged village roads, marketplaces, temples and homes across the block. Household belongings are floating in water, leaving families struggling for food, shelter and basic necessities.

The floodwaters have also driven venomous snakes and reptiles out of their natural habitats. As burrows and low-lying areas remain submerged, the reptiles are seeking refuge in houses, cowsheds and temporary shelters, increasing the risk of snakebite incidents.

Residents taking shelter along the Baitarani river embankment near Dobhabil village under Tarapada panchayat said they are living in constant fear.

"We are afraid not only during the day but also at night. Snakes can enter our temporary shelters at any time," said flood victims Chaitanya Dalei, Jagannath Dalei and Nabin Dalei, who are living under makeshift tents with their families.

According to Mangalpur Community Health Centre (CHC), 76 people have received medical treatment over the past five days for snakebites and bites from unidentified creatures.

Mangalpur CHC Medical Officer Dr. Amrita Pritam Malla said that among the patients treated, 37 were bitten by unidentified animals, while 11 suffered snakebites.

The daily treatment figures include:

July 29: 4 patients
July 30: 23 patients
July 31: 21 patients
August 1: 14 patients
August 2: 14 patients

Local sources also reported that residents have killed at least 10 highly venomous snakes during the ongoing flood situation.

Health officials have urged people to remain vigilant, especially in areas without electricity. They advised residents to use torches at night, avoid placing hands or feet in dark corners without checking first, inspect shoes and clothes before wearing them, and sleep on raised platforms or cots instead of the floor.

Medical Officer Dr. Amrita Pritam Malla also cautioned people against relying on traditional remedies or faith healing in the event of a snakebite. She urged victims to seek immediate medical treatment, adding that anti-snake venom is available at all health centres across the block.