Nepal : Only 6 of 233 bodies identified at Chitwan hospital amid heat challenge

Forensic teams at Bharatpur Hospital in Nepal's Chitwan district have collected DNA samples from 135 bodies as authorities work to identify a growing number of dead, with bodies continuing to arrive at the hospital.

A total of 233 bodies have so far been brought to the district, but only six have been identified and handed over to their families, Himalayan Times reported, quoting hospital offcials. 

The identification process has been complicated by the large number of bodies arriving at once, limited facilities and a shortage of manpower.

Four forensic teams deployed

Hospital spokesperson Dr Ram Prasad Sapkota said two teams led by forensic experts began the identification process on Aug. 27.

Four forensic expert teams have been working on the process since Aug. 28, with the hospital coordinating with the College of Medical Sciences, Chitwan Medical College and medical colleges in Kathmandu and Palpa.

The teams are collecting biological samples needed for DNA testing while carrying out other procedures to establish the identities of the dead.

A separate seven-member medical team was deployed on Aug. 29 to improve the efficiency of sample collection and other medical procedures.

Heat adds to identification challenge

The high temperature and humidity in Chitwan have added to the difficulties faced by forensic teams.

Hospital officials said the weather can accelerate decomposition, making the preservation and identification of bodies more difficult.

The hospital is coordinating with the Ministry of Health and Food Hygiene, district authorities, security personnel, volunteers and media representatives to speed up preservation, post-mortem examinations and identification.

Officials said the procedures are being carried out in accordance with medical and forensic standards.