Ahmedabad: Nearly two weeks after the AI 171 plane crash, state-based experts have successfully completed DNA matching for 240 of the 241 passengers including the crew members onboard the ill-fated flight. No new matches have been made in the last 48 hours, according to sources in the state health department.Meanwhile, the mortal remains of one UK passenger were sent home on Wednesday, bringing the total number of remains handed over to relatives to 258. According to Civil Hospital officials, the body of one UK national remains in the hospital morgue.“Relatives of the deceased will soon take the remains for the last rites. So far, 259 individuals have been identified—240 from the flight and 13 ground victims through DNA matching, and six others through physical and facial identification. Only one body remains with us now,” said a Civil Hospital official.There were 242 people, including crew, on board the aircraft. Only one passenger, Viswashkumar Ramesh, survived the crash. “The individual whose DNA is yet to be matched is believed to be an Indian national, as all 52 British nationals, seven Portuguese nationals, and one Canadian national on board have been identified,” said a health department official.Sources added that forensic science experts are continuing efforts to identify the final victim. “Advanced methods are being employed to extract DNA from even highly charred remains. Every effort is being made to give the family of the victim the closure they deserve,” said an official.“Identifying 253 individuals through DNA in such a short time is a record in itself. All identifications are done as per international standards to ensure the victims’ families can proceed with last rites and access any entitled benefits,” the official added.
