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Key Points

Gujarat's Forensic Science Lab is working non-stop to identify Air India crash victims through DNA matching. Director HP Sanghvi explained the intricate process of extracting DNA from remains and cross-checking with relatives. The lab uses advanced techniques like bone grinding and Y chromosome testing for accuracy. Despite the complexity, most identifications have been completed swiftly.

Key Points: Gujarat FSL Works 24x7 on Air India Crash Victim DNA Matching

  • FSL conducts 24x7 DNA sampling from crash remains and relatives
  • Two methods: fresh blood vs. complex bone/tooth extraction
  • Matches require 23 allele alignments for confirmation
  • Y chromosome tests verify father-son relationships
2 min read

Air India plane crash: 24x7 DNA sampling-to-matching process underway at FSL

Gujarat's Forensic Science Lab races to identify Air India crash victims through round-the-clock DNA profiling and matching with family samples.

"The entire DNA matching process is complex and time-intensive but crucial for accurate identification. – HP Sanghvi, FSL Director"

Gandhinagar, June 15

The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Gujarat's Gandhinagar has been operating round the clock to identify victims of the Air India plane crash through DNA profiling and matching, according to a release from the Gujarat Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

Speaking to the media on Sunday, HP Sanghvi, the Director of FSL, provided detailed information regarding DNA profiling and matching in connection with the plane crash incident.

As per the release, the FSL director stated that the process, from sampling of the deceased passengers' family members to DNA matching, is being carried out continuously for 24 hours. Providing insights into the DNA profiling and matching process, he explained that there are primarily two methods of obtaining DNA samples.

One method involves collecting samples from fresh blood, which is not a complex process. The other method involves collecting samples from the remains of the deceased, which is more complex and requires greater precision. Samples collected from the remains are carefully cleaned to avoid external contamination, the release said.

He added that during the DNA isolation and extraction process, if the sample includes a bone, it is ground into a powder. If the sample includes a tooth, it is broken into small pieces and then powdered. The powdered sample is then subjected to a precise temperature in a special machine to isolate the DNA, it said.

The quantity and quality of this isolated DNA is then checked using an RT-PCR machine. If the DNA meets the required standards, multiple copies are prepared. Both strains of the DNA are separated, and the strains are then run through a sequencer machine to obtain the DNA profile. This entire process is highly complex and time-consuming, the release said.

He mentioned that even after this entire process, if a sufficient number of DNA alleles are not obtained, the entire procedure is repeated. The obtained DNA alleles are then compared with the DNA alleles of the deceased's family members. Only when 23 DNA alleles match, the identity of the deceased and the relative is confirmed. In cases involving a father-son relationship, Y chromosome testing is conducted for confirmation, it said.

He emphasised that the entire process is both complex and time-intensive. Through meticulous and highly accurate DNA profiling and matching by FSL, the identities of most of the deceased have been successfully established with their family members within a very short timeframe, it added.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Heartbreaking tragedy 😢. Kudos to the FSL team for working tirelessly to bring closure to grieving families. The technical details show how much effort goes into this process. Hope they complete it soon with accuracy.
P
Priya M.
The scientific process described here is fascinating but also reminds us of the human tragedy behind it. My prayers for all affected families. Gujarat's FSL is doing commendable work - this should be standard protocol for all such disasters.
A
Amit S.
While the technical process is impressive, I wonder why we don't have a national DNA database for such emergencies. It could speed up identification in future tragedies. Also, hope the airline is providing proper compensation to victims' families.
N
Neha T.
The details about grinding bones and teeth into powder are quite graphic but necessary for accuracy. Salute to the forensic team handling such difficult work with sensitivity. May the departed souls rest in peace 🙏
V
Vikram J.
This shows India's forensic capabilities are world-class. But the real test is how quickly and compassionately they can complete this painful process for families waiting for closure. The 24x7 effort is praiseworthy.
S
Sunita R.
As someone who lost a relative in the 2010 Mangalore crash, I know how important DNA matching is for families. Hope the authorities are also providing counseling support along with technical identification. Trauma lasts much longer than the forensic process.

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