Mararikulam: Thick vegetation has overrun the premises of the ESI Hospital at Pathirappally in Alappuzha, turning the area into a virtual forest from which snakes and other poisonous creatures frequently enter the building. This has created a serious safety threat for hospital staff as well as the hundreds of patients who visit the facility every day.

The dense growth on the southern side of the hospital has become a breeding ground for snakes, which also pose risks to motorists on the adjacent National Highway. Several accidents have been reported on the narrow service road after snakes slithered across the stretch.

Years ago, a local voluntary organisation had cleared the premises, but no similar effort has been undertaken since. Residents are now urging authorities to take immediate action to remove the invasive vegetation and restore safety in and around the hospital.