PESHAWAR, Jan 04 (TNS): The first-ever DNA laboratory in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is set to start operations at Khyber Medical College after the health department imported 400 kits for DNA tests, officials told on Saturday.
The Forensic Science Laboratory Peshawar had been established over three years ago to conduct DNA profiling but the lab was practically dysfunctional because of lack of DNA test kits.
Until now, KP authorities had to refer samples for such tests to the Punjab Forensic Science Laboratory in Lahore. But the recent development will enable them to conduct DNA profiling at home.
An official requesting anonymity has said that the purchase of kits for the lab would not only reduce the cost of the test to Rs4,500 from up to Rs25,000 but also save precious time.
“It takes nearly a week to send samples to Lahore and then receive the results. However, with the latest development, we will be able to conduct the test and acquire results within a day.”
He made it clear that the test would be conducted free of charge.
According to sources, some 600 kits worth $21,000 had been ordered whereas, in the first consignment, the authorities have received 400 kits. The laboratory is expected to start functioning from Tuesday.
