Forensic Team in Nepal Making Progress on DNA Identification Amid Flash Floods
NEW DELHI: A team of Indian forensic experts is currently in Kathmandu, Nepal, working to identify victims of the recent devastating flash floods that struck the region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported on Tuesday that the team is processing around 3,000 DNA samples and has successfully created over 1,200 DNA profiles so far.
During a press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal responded to questions about the ongoing efforts to locate missing persons. He noted that initially, there were reports of 275 Indian nationals unaccounted for, in addition to several individuals from the Indian diaspora who are also missing. “Our forensic team is collaborating with their Nepali counterparts across several laboratories in Kathmandu,” Jaiswal explained.
The flash floods, which began near the Nepal-Tibet border on August 26, caused widespread destruction in northern and central Nepal. The Bhotekoshi River, which flows from the Himalayas, carried the floodwaters, destroying homes, sweeping away vehicles, and damaging roads and bridges, as well as impacting hydropower projects.
The Indian team continues its crucial work while awaiting updates from Nepali authorities about the missing individuals. The situation remains a priority for both governments as they strive to address the aftermath of this natural disaster.
