Ahmedabad: The Ahmedabad Civil Hospital has requested additional DNA samples from relatives of eight plane crash victims after initial samples failed to match. According to Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, the DNA matching process is crucial for identifying victims and handing over their bodies to families.

The hospital has received DNA samples from relatives of the deceased, but in eight cases, the samples didn't match, prompting the request for additional samples from other relatives, such as siblings, parents or children. This process is necessary to ensure accurate identification and facilitate the return of the bodies to their families. "We generally prefer a sample of father or son/daughter. If not, then we take a sample of another available member," Joshi told PTI.

As of now, 231 DNA samples have been matched, and 210 bodies have been handed over to their families. The authorities are working to expedite the process, with the Forensic Science University and other agencies collaborating to ensure speedy identification.

The DNA matching process involves collecting DNA samples from relatives, extracting DNA from the remains of the deceased, and comparing the two to confirm identities. This process is complex and time-consuming, but authorities are prioritizing speed and accuracy to bring closure to the families of the victims.

The Air India flight AI-171 crashed on June 12, killing 241 people on board. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with a high-level committee formed to probe the incident.

With inputs from PTI