Thrippunithura: A 10-foot-long python that had climbed a teak tree near the Muthukulangara temple was brought down and captured after fire and rescue personnel sprayed water on it. The incident occurred around 6.30 AM on Tuesday.

The reptile was first noticed by an employee of a nearby flower shop, who spotted crows circling and gathering around the tree. Soon, locals rushed to the spot and passersby halted their vehicles to catch a glimpse, leading to a major traffic block in the area.

After being alerted, the Fire and Rescue team arrived and used a high-pressure water jet to dislodge the python. Unable to withstand the heavy gush of water, the reptile lost its grip and fell to the ground. Following this, members of the SARPA rescue team reached the site and captured the python.

The operation was led by P K Santosh, Assistant Station Officer of the Thrippunithura Fire and Rescue Service, along with Senior Fire and Rescue Officer Krishnakumar. Experts note that nearly 150 pythons are caught and released into forests from the district every month.