Debris makes DNA sampling a tough job

The DNA sampling of the dead bodies, which is expected to establish the identities of those who died, is proving to be a daunting task. HT reports.

The DNA sampling of the dead bodies, which is expected to establish the identities of those who died, is proving to be a daunting task.

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“DNA sampling is very important for insurance claims or giving relief to genuine people. We are taking DNA samples from bodies and giving them to the government,” said Dr Vijay Dhasmana, chairman of the Himalayan Institute Hospital and Trust, which has sent a team of forensic experts to collect DNA samples.

The experts are first taking pictures of the bodies along with tissues for sampling. Though more than 300 samples have been collected, work is being hampered because of the 8ft-high debris that has covered the area.

“There were very few bodies that could be removed completely from the debris in Kedarnath. A large number of bodies are buried beneath the debris or partially protruding from it.”