Odisha train tragedy: 29 more bodies identified through DNA tests

The identities of 29 more victims who had died in the triple train tragedy at Bahanaga railway station in Balasore district have been ascertained through DNA tests nearly one month after the deadliest crash.

The mortal remains, which were preserved at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, will be handed over to the families of the deceased today. Following intimation by the authorities, the relatives of the deceased reached AIIMS Bhubaneswar this morning to collect the mortal remains.

Ambulances have been arranged for families wishing to carry the bodies of their relatives to their respective areas. Those bodies which will not be carried by their relatives will be cremated in Bhubaneswar, sources said. 

As per sources, the 29 bodies which have been identified through DNA tests are from West Bengal, Bihar and Odisha.

As many as 90 bodies were stored in AIIMS Bhubaneswar for identification. Due to confusion in the identification process, samples of 78 bodies were sent to AIIMS New Delhi for DNA testing.

Notably, the triple-train accident took place near Bahanaga railway station in Balasore district on June 2. At least 290 people died and around 1200 persons were injured in the tragic accident.