India’s forensic team deployed in Kathmandu has processed more than 1,400 DNA samples as part of the ongoing identification and forensic exercise, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.
According to the External Affairs Ministry, the team has so far generated 378 DNA profiles, marking significant progress in the forensic processing work being carried out in Nepal.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: India’s ongoing forensic and technical assistance in Nepal
Location: Kathmandu and Chilime, Nepal
Authority/Organisation: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
Action Taken: DNA samples processed while technical teams continue tunnel clearance operations
Impact: Forensic identification has progressed, while preparations for heavy machinery deployment are advancing
The DNA processing is part of India's ongoing assistance in the aftermath of the incident in Nepal that has required coordinated forensic and technical operations. Indian teams have been supporting authorities on the ground through specialised expertise and equipment.
Meanwhile, a separate Indian joint technical team continued its work at the Chilime tunnel, where dewatering and slush-removal operations are underway.
The technical team is facing considerable operational challenges because of the slope of the tunnel and limited access to the affected area. Despite these difficulties, the team is using innovative methods to continue the clearance operation.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The processing of more than 1,400 DNA samples represents substantial progress in the identification effort. At the same time, the difficult conditions at Chilime highlight the challenges involved in accessing and clearing the affected tunnel.
The MEA said construction of a makeshift access path is also progressing. The path is being prepared to facilitate the induction of heavy machinery required for clearing the tunnel.
According to the ministry, the makeshift path is expected to be completed within the next two to three days, after which the deployment of heavy machinery can support the ongoing clearance efforts.
The simultaneous forensic and technical operations underline the scale of India's assistance in Nepal, with specialised teams working on both identification and difficult ground-level recovery and clearance tasks.
