Nepal to preserve DNA of unidentified flood victims before burial

Nepal's government will preserve DNA and other identifying evidence from bodies that cannot be identified before proceeding with their burial or other management. Prime Minister Balendra Shah stated on Saturday that this measure applies only to unidentified victims, with those identified by their families being handed over to relatives.

"Only bodies that cannot be identified will be managed by the government after preserving DNA and other evidence that could help establish their identity," Shah said in a social media statement. He urged the public not to be misled regarding the government's handling of the deceased.

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Only bodies that cannot be identified will be managed by the government after preserving DNA and other evidence that could help establish their identity.

The devastating flood, caused by the Bhotekoshi river overflowing on August 26, has resulted in extensive loss of life and property damage across several districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. So far, 675 bodies have been recovered from various affected locations. These recovered bodies are being stored in airtight bags and managed under the Unidentified and Unclaimed Bodies Management (First Amendment) Directive, 2026.

Prime Minister Shah emphasized that search, rescue, treatment, relief, and communication restoration operations were intensified immediately after the disaster. The government is coordinating efforts with federal, provincial, and local authorities, with agencies working at full capacity to protect those affected. "Saving the lives of every affected citizen remains the government’s first priority," Shah asserted, pledging continued support for rescue and rehabilitation until tangible results are achieved.

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Saving the lives of every affected citizen remains the government’s first priority.