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Nepal Flood Victims: DNA Tests Begin for Missing Tamils
5 Sep
Summary
- DNA profiling for missing Tamil Nadu tourists began in Thanjavur.
- Family members of 23 missing tourists provided blood samples.
- Profiles will be shared with Nepal for comparison with unidentified remains.
Ten days after devastating flash floods in Nepal left numerous Tamil Nadu tourists untraceable, a crucial step in identifying them began Saturday. DNA profiling of first-degree relatives commenced at Thanjavur Medical College Hospital, with family members of 23 missing tourists providing blood samples. These autosomal STR DNA profiles are expected to be shared online with Nepali authorities within three to five days.
The profiling process, managed by the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory at Pillayarpatti, aims to compare the relatives' DNA with that obtained from unidentified mortal remains. Officials stated the camp would continue indefinitely as long as family members sought to provide samples, emphasizing that some relatives were hesitant, struggling to accept the potential loss of their loved ones.
Approximately 85 tourists from Tamil Nadu, part of various Kailash Mansarovar tour groups, remain unaccounted for following the August 26 floods. The Thanjavur district administration is actively coordinating with affected families and relevant authorities to manage the situation and plan subsequent actions.
