Nepal issues advisory on identification of remains of foreign nationals killed in floods

Kathmandu, India: Nepal's government has released a detailed advisory outlining the steps required to identify and repatriate the remains of foreign nationals who perished in recent flash floods. The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu reported on Monday that the Nepalese authorities have established a comprehensive protocol encompassing documentation, photographs, post-mortem examinations, and forensic analyses to verify the cause of death.

The process also involves fingerprinting, DNA sampling, and verifying passports, all overseen by coordination with the Embassy or a consular official. Once the identification is confirmed through photographs and descriptions on the Nepal Police website, the Embassy's officials in Kathmandu will provide assistance in coordinating with local authorities for the handover and repatriation of remains.

The Nepalese government has temporarily interred a significant number of mortal remains to mitigate health risks. To facilitate DNA matching, foreign nationals' families can send DNA profiles via email or provide blood samples along with preliminary information. In situations where identification remains elusive, Nepal authorities will facilitate DNA matching.

The Indian mission emphasized that the Nepal Police's website provides further guidance on DNA profiling, along with the embassy's helpline numbers for further assistance.