*KARACHI – An international standard forensic DNA laboratory to beestablished at Karachi University.*

The laboratory will be called Strengthening Forensic DNA and SerologyFacility.

The facility will provide assistance to the police and other lawenforcement agencies in the scientific investigation of civil and criminalcases. Genetic material discovered during investigations will no longer besent to diagnostic laboratories in Punjab, thereby saving both time andmoney.

Sindh Health and Population Welfare Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho saidthe health department will provide forensic equipment and funds from thehealth department’s reserved funds for research in the first phase. Shesaid all forensic DNA testing will be provided free-of-charge in thelaboratory.

It is reported that the facility is being developed on the orders of theSindh High Court.

According to the summary submitted by ICCBS Director Dr Iqbal Chaudhry, thefacility will require Rs 150 million to purchase equipment and issueservice contracts and another Rs 25 million for chemical kits. In additionto this, the laboratory will need Rs 20 million for training anddevelopment of its staff while Rs 65 million will be allocated for thenon-development budget, which includes salaries and allowances of the staff.