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Key Points

Forensic experts in Gujarat are working non-stop to identify victims of the Ahmedabad plane crash using advanced DNA techniques. The process involves isolating, quantifying, amplifying, and sequencing DNA from severely damaged remains. Only one passenger survived the tragedy, while 241 others perished. Families are being asked to provide DNA samples to speed up the identification process.

Key Points: Gujarat DNA Lab Races to Identify Ahmedabad Plane Crash Victims

  • DNA lab follows 4-stage process for victim identification
  • Sole survivor Vishwashkumar Ramesh under medical care
  • Advanced STR kits and RT-PCR machines ensure accuracy
  • Families urged to submit DNA samples for faster matching
2 min read

DNA lab works around the clock to identify victims of Ahmedabad plane crash

Forensic experts work tirelessly using advanced DNA testing to identify 241 victims of the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, with only one survivor.

"Forensic professionals tackle challenging materials like charred bones, teeth, and tissue fragments. – Directorate of Forensic Science"

Ahmedabad, June 16

The DNA Lab of the Directorate of Forensic Science in Gujarat has emerged as the focal point of a large-scale identification initiative. Scientists and forensic specialists are diligently working to recognise the victims using advanced DNA testing techniques.

The Air India flight that was travelling from Ahmedabad to London met with disaster shortly after taking off on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of 241 of the 242 individuals aboard. Among the passengers were 230 civilians along with 12 crew members. The sole survivor, Vishwashkumar Ramesh, a British citizen of Indian descent, is currently receiving medical care. Additionally, at least 33 others, including residents and MBBS students residing in a nearby doctors' hostel, also perished when the plane crashed into the building.

At the DNA Lab, the process of identification is segmented into four essential stages, each vital for obtaining precise genetic profiles from the remains. The procedure initiates in the Isolation Lab, where human remains and postmortem samples sourced from the crash site are analysed. Forensic professionals tackle challenging materials like charred bones, teeth, and tissue fragments. These materials undergo chemical treatment and are processed with advanced machinery to extract DNA even from the most compromised samples.

After DNA extraction, it proceeds to the Quantification Lab. This lab's role is to assess the quality and quantity of the DNA. Tools such as real-time PCR (RT-PCR) machines and automated liquid handling systems guarantee that only suitable samples are sent for subsequent processing.

The third phase occurs in the PCR Lab, where the DNA is amplified to ensure sufficient material for precise analysis. A thermal cycler machine is utilised alongside STR (Short Tandem Repeat) kits to amplify the DNA sequences.

In the final stage, the Sequencing Lab analyses the amplified DNA using advanced sequencing machines. The information gained from this stage is utilised by senior scientists to create detailed DNA profiles. These profiles are subsequently compared with reference samples provided by the victims' families, enabling officials to verify the identities of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

The Directorate has requested that family members submit DNA samples to hasten the identification procedure.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Heartbreaking tragedy 😢 The forensic team's work is commendable. Can't imagine what the families are going through. Hope the DNA identification brings them some closure. Jai Hind.
R
Rahul S.
Our forensic science capabilities have come a long way. Salute to these scientists working day and night. But serious questions need to be asked about aviation safety - this is the 3rd major crash in a decade.
A
Anjali M.
The MBBS students who died in hostel...so young with bright futures ahead. This is devastating. Government should give proper compensation to all affected families.
V
Vikram P.
The technical details about DNA process are impressive but painful to read. So many lives lost. Why don't we have better emergency response systems near airports? This could have saved more lives.
S
Sunita R.
My cousin works at this lab. They haven't slept for 3 days. Please pray for all the victims and these hardworking scientists doing God's work 🙏
K
Karan D.
The sole survivor being NRI makes me wonder - was he seated differently? Safety protocols need review. Also, hope the hostel building had proper fire safety measures. Too many questions remain.

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