The aftermath of the Balasore train tragedy in which over 266 people lost their lives has left the State government of Bhubaneswar facing a daunting challenge. Over 150 dead bodies of Balasore train tragedy victims, preserved in various mortuaries including AIIMS, Capital Hospital, and other medical facilities, have yet to be identified.
The disfiguration of the bodies beyond recognition has complicated the identification process, leaving families in anguish as they await closure through the final rites of their loved ones.
The difficulty in identifying the bodies stems from the severe disfigurement they have suffered. This unfortunate circumstance has made the task of identifying the deceased a daunting one for authorities and grieving families alike.
In an effort to preserve the bodies, some have been stored in ice chambers, while others have undergone chemical treatments to slow down the decomposition process. These measures aim to buy more time for identification and allow families to bid their final farewells.
Visiting Team Assesses the Situation: A four-member team from AIIMS, Delhi recently visited AIIMS, Bhubaneswar to evaluate the situation and take stock of the mortuaries. Their expertise and guidance will play a crucial role in ensuring effective preservation and identification procedures. The collaboration between different medical institutions is crucial in handling this challenging situation.
Online Platforms and Helplines to facilitate identification process
To aid in the identification process, photographs and identification marks of the deceased have been uploaded to three dedicated websites: www.srcodisha.nic.in, www.bmc.gov.in, and www.osdma.org. This initiative aims to allow relatives to view the photographs and come forward to claim the bodies. Additionally, two toll-free numbers, 18003450061 and 1929, have been established to provide assistance and support. However, it has been emphasized that the photographs should only be used for identification purposes.
Government’s Efforts: In response to this tragic event, the government has formed teams of officials responsible for identifying and facilitating the handover of bodies to their respective families. These teams are working tirelessly to ensure that every effort is made to reunite the victims with their loved ones. Chief Secretary Pradeep Jena expressed hope that the uploaded photographs would help families in identifying their deceased relatives.
Collecting DNA and Performing Last Rites: The last rites of the unclaimed bodies will be performed after collecting DNA samples and fingerprints to establish a definitive identity. The police department and the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation have established dedicated centers for this purpose. A toll-free number, 1929, has been made available for individuals seeking information and support. State government officers have also been deployed to assist in the process, ensuring that families receive the necessary assistance during this difficult time.
As of now, 108 bodies have been identified and handed over to their respective family members, bringing some solace to grieving families. The State government has also provided an update on the injured victims, with 793 individuals discharged from various hospitals and 382 still receiving treatment. Continued medical care and support for the survivors remain a priority, alongside the solemn task of identifying and honoring the deceased.
