Princh Mondal Olif, Bagerhat District Correspondent:

A large python measuring approximately nine feet in length was rescued after becoming trapped in a fishing net in Chalitabunia village under Morrelganj Upazila of Bagerhat, creating considerable excitement among local residents. Following the rescue, officials from the Forest Department took custody of the snake and announced plans to release it into a suitable habitat in the Sundarbans.

According to local sources, the incident occurred on Monday (July 13) when resident Mojibur Rahman Hawlader was lifting his fishing net from a water body. While checking the net, he discovered a massive python entangled inside. Shocked by the unexpected sight, he immediately informed nearby villagers, who quickly gathered at the scene.

Responding to the situation, local snake rescuer and traditional healer Russell Kabiraj carefully freed the reptile from the net without causing any harm. He estimated that the python was about nine feet long and weighed nearly 20 kilograms.

Speaking to reporters, Russell Kabiraj said the python is a protected wild animal and an important part of Bangladesh's natural heritage. He emphasized that instead of keeping or harming the snake, it should be handed over to the Forest Department so it could safely return to its natural habitat. He also confirmed that the animal remained unharmed during the rescue operation.

After the rescue, the python was brought to the upazila headquarters, where hundreds of curious residents gathered to catch a glimpse of the giant reptile. Many people took photographs and videos while Russell briefly displayed the python after taking it out of a carrying bag. Shortly afterward, Forest Department officials arrived and officially took custody of the animal.

Abdul Hakim, Officer-in-Charge of the Gulishakhali Forest Patrol Outpost under the Chandpai Range of the Sundarbans East Forest Division, said forest officials responded immediately after receiving information about the incident. He confirmed that the python had been safely recovered and that, after completing the necessary procedures, it would be released into a suitable natural environment inside the Sundarbans.

Local conservation-minded residents praised the decision to hand the python over to the Forest Department instead of harming or illegally keeping it. They said such responsible actions not only protect valuable wildlife but also help strengthen public awareness about biodiversity conservation and the importance of preserving Bangladesh's protected species.