Chennai, Sept 4:.
The Tamil Nadu government has arranged free DNA testing for first-degree relatives of people from the State who remain untraceable following the devastating floods in Nepal.
The tests will be conducted through forensic science laboratories in Chennai, Madurai and Thanjavur to help identify missing persons.
According to the State government, 305 people from Tamil Nadu were reported to have been in Nepal when the flash floods struck on August 26. As of September 2, 220 had been safely rescued, while efforts were continuing to establish contact with the remaining 85 people.
The government has been coordinating with the Centre, Nepal government and the Indian Embassy to trace and bring back those stranded in Nepal.
Under the arrangements made in accordance with Nepal government guidelines, the mother, father, son or daughter of a missing person can voluntarily undergo the DNA test free of cost.
District Collectors have been directed to facilitate the collection of blood samples from relatives at the nearest regional forensic laboratory and upload the required details on the Nepal government’s website.
The State has also said it would extend necessary assistance to relatives who wish to travel to Nepal in connection with the identification process.