In 2011, when a spectacled cobra (Naja Naja) was on the loose around a water purification plant near Mumbai’s Vihar Lake, Pawan Sharma rushed to its rescue. Not allowing his hydrophobia deter him from entering the purification plant to save the reptile, he stood knee-deep in water and at one point, almost fell into a utility hole.
That day, Pawan had almost lost his life. But the 26-year-old does not regret it at all. He was able to save the snake, and that was all that mattered to him.
This incident is just one example of Pawan’s dedication and unconditional love for animals.
For his efforts toward rehabilitating animals in and around Mumbai, the Forest Department in Thane has made him a Wildlife Warden. His NGO—RAWW is also officially a part of the contact list of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s rescue operation teams.
Speaking to The Better India (TBI) about his passion on life, Pawan says, “While growing up, I used to watch a lot of documentaries and shows on wild animals, and my favourite part would be the rescue operation. I always imagined myself in the rescuer’s place.”
Finally, he got his chance when he was merely 13 years old. With an aluminum hanger and a bucket, he rescued a Russell Viper in his society in Mulund near the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP).
Apart from saving animals, the organisation is also raising people’s awareness of animal conservation. Workshops, sessions, and rallies, Pawan is using all the methods he can to educate Mumbaikars. And to that end, the informative classes are garnering a positive response from both the citizens and the authorities in Mumbai.
Citing one of their most impactful work, Pawan talks about ‘Project Raahat’ that was started post the devastating floods in Kerala. In collaboration with a few non-profit organisations and authorities, Pawan and his team rescued more than 300 animals in Kerala by sending relief materials and medicines for rescued animals in the flood-affected areas.
To read more in details visit TheBetterIndia.com
Article and image source: TheBetterIndia.com
