Snakes on a Ship: Python and Cobra Infestation Halts Repairs at India's Historic Research Vessel
Workers at the Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam encountered an unusual and hazardous obstacle when India's venerable ocean research vessel, ORV Sagar Kanya, docked for retrofitting. The crew discovered a significant snake infestation, including a large python and a cobra, which forced a nearly month-long suspension of critical repair operations.
Elusive Python and Cobra Capture Disrupt Shipyard Schedule
Approximately two months ago, as workers first boarded the 100-meter all-weather vessel, they spotted a python slithering through the ship's numerous compartments. Reports of additional snakes quickly spread, instilling fear among the workforce and compelling them to avoid starting the necessary repairs. The vessel had been anchored near the Andaman coast, adjacent to forested areas, for several months prior, which experts believe allowed the reptiles to infiltrate the ship unnoticed.
"We came to know from the ship management that several birds and other species were also on the ship," one worker revealed, highlighting the extent of the wildlife intrusion. On the second day of docking, the presence of the python and smaller snakes was confirmed, prompting authorities to seek professional assistance.
Snake Catchers Deployed in Intensive Search Operation
The ship management urgently contacted Naga Raju, a representative from the Visakha Snake Catcher Welfare Association, who arrived with a team of six experts. Despite a thorough two-day search from top to bottom, the python proved elusive, managing to evade capture. "This is not a small ship. It has many rooms and places to hide," Naga Raju explained, emphasizing the challenges posed by the vessel's complex layout.
During their initial efforts, the team successfully captured four snakes but failed to locate the python. The situation escalated when a worker reported seeing a snake emerge from the ship and fall into the water, further heightening concerns among the crew.
Cobra Capture and Resumption of Repair Work
Less than a week ago, Naga Raju and his team were called back for a second attempt after workers spotted a large cobra on the ship's second floor. After three hours of diligent effort, the team successfully captured the cobra, a critical step toward restoring safety onboard.
Following the removal of the immediate snake threats, HSL officials confirmed that repair work has finally recommenced and is expected to be completed later this month. The delay, however, has underscored the unexpected challenges that can arise in maritime maintenance.
Historical Significance of ORV Sagar Kanya
ORV Sagar Kanya, commissioned in 1983 and originally built in Germany, is one of India's oldest and most important ocean research vessels. Owned by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), it plays a vital role in multidisciplinary studies across the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea, supporting geoscientific, oceanographic, and atmospheric research.
This incident highlights the intersection of wildlife encounters and industrial operations, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of working with historic maritime assets in ecologically diverse regions.
