Indian Forensic team begins DNA analysis to identify flash flood victims in Nepal
A 19-member Indian forensic team has begun analysing DNA samples alongside forensic experts to assist in identifying people affected by the recent flash floods in Nepal. The Indian Embassy said that the team commenced the analysis at the Nepal Police Central Forensic Science Laboratory and the National Forensic Science Laboratory in the Khumaltar area of Kathmandu Valley.
The Indian experts are working with their counterparts to speed up the processing of DNA samples collected from flood-affected areas and help establish the identities of victims and missing persons. The deployment of Indian forensic team is part of ongoing efforts to support Nepal in the aftermath of the recent flash floods, which caused significant loss of life and left several people unaccounted for.
Nepal Police said 1,068 bodies have been recovered by yesterday evening, of which 400 had only partial remains, complicating the identification process. With the death toll continuing to rise following last week’s deadly floods, authorities have collected DNA samples from several unclaimed bodies to support identification efforts in the future.
Chitwan district has reported the highest number of recovered bodies so far. Authorities have buried hundreds of bodies in open spaces along riverbanks after collecting DNA samples for future identification. According to Nepal Police, 4,606 people remain unaccounted for, including 583 foreigners, raising concerns that the death toll could increase further. Authorities said efforts are continuing to trace people who remain unaccounted for at various hydropower projects along the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli river corridors in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts.
