AP train fire: Forensic experts begin investigations

Forensic experts on Sunday began examination and collecting evidence from the ill-fated AC coach of the Bangalore-Nanded Express that caught fire on Saturday killing 26 people in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur.

As a part of the investigation to determine the cause of the fire, a 13-member team from the AP Forensic Science Laboratory started sample collection, Anantpur DSP S Senthil Kumar told PTI over the phone.

A devastating fire ripped through an AC coach of the Bangalore-Nanded Express, near the Kothacheruvu railway station, charring 26 people to death, including two children and leaving 13 others injured on Saturday.

The 26 bodies were shifted to a hospital in Bangalore after conducting primary autopsy. As the bodies were charred beyond recognition, DNA tests were conducted for identification. It was learnt that forensic experts will also conduct DNA profiling to identify the deceased.

"So far 13 bodies have been identified," a GRP official said.

Based on preliminary reports, AP police had earlier said that the cause of the fire may be a short-circuit near the air-conditioning unit.

Image: Fire engulfs an AC compartment of the Bangalore-Nanded Express in Anantapur district

Photograph: SnapsIndia