Many missing, body count a grisly task

The death toll in the explosion at Amudan Chemical Pvt Ltd, Dombivli, on Thursday, which is currently at eight, is likely to increase, since as many as nine people have been reported missing. Only two of the eight bodies have been identified so far Khanvilkar Riddhi and Rohini Kadam. (According to wire agency IANS, the toll has already mounted to 13).

- NK GUPTA

According to the fire brigade, the blast was of such high intensity that some of the victims were blown to pieces. Six of the bodies recovered were entirely charred, with only some bones and teeth being found. "It is highly impossible to identify the bodies. We have called forensic experts and they have collected bones and teeth and sent them to FSL, Kalina, for examination. DNA tests will be conducted for identification," said Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation deputy chief Dr Prasad Borkar.

The site of the blast presented a grisly picture, with body parts being recovered from the debris. The families of the nine missing people have been making frantic inquiries with the rescue team, which resumed search operations at 6.30am on Friday. Body parts collected from the scene are being stored at the government-run Shastri Nagar hospital.