Two months after Odisha train tragedy, 29 bodies yet to be identified

“The last round of DNA sequencing and sampling report is expected in the next two to three days. But only two to three bodies are expected to be identified,” Parida told The Indian Express.

On unidentified bodies, Parida said, the decisions will be taken by the health and railway ministries, and they will do the needful in coordination with the state government.

After receiving the final round of DNA cross matching reports, the authorities may conduct mass cremation of the unidentified bodies, officials said.

A total 295 persons were killed in the accident involving Chennai-bound Coromandel Express, Yesvantpur Express returning to Howrah and a stationary goods train.

After reports of multiple claimants over a single body, blood samples of a total 103 persons were collected to identify and handover a total 81 bodies. Based on DNA matching reports, the AIIMS authorities have handed over 52 bodies to their family members.

Unable to trace their relatives, several families still continue to search. “I have no idea whether my son (Hardev) is alive or not… AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, authorities had asked me to give blood samples for DNA cross match. The report is yet to come,” said Kailash Kumar, a native of Dumka in Jharkhand.

The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested three railway staff, while a total seven staff have already been suspended on charges of alleged negligence that led to the mishap.