New Delhi: In a bid to speed up crime investigation and forensic examination, Delhi is set to get a state-of-the-art regional forensic science laboratory (FSL) at Sheikh Sarai by 2028. Delhi govt’s expenditure finance committee chaired by chief minister Rekha Gupta has approved Rs 152 crore for the project. The facility, spread over 6,300 square metres with an 18,300-square-metre built-up area, will be constructed by the Public Works Department within two years.
Pending cases fell 72% from 27,585 in June 2025 to 7,178 by July 31, 2026, according to home minister Ashish Sood. Over the past year, the FSL disposed of 3,49,519 exhibits and has been clearing over 3,000 cases every month since November 2025. “The new Regional Forensic Science Laboratory would help the home department and Delhi Police meet the requirements arising from the new criminal laws. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam have led to a significant increase in the demand for forensic investigations in criminal cases. The facility will strengthen the scientific support provided by the existing lab in Rohini, a multidisciplinary facility which supports police investigations, crime-scene examination and reconstruction. The laboratory, which had a large pendency, has made progress in clearing its backlog.
The govt has approved the project amid growing demand for forensic examination following the implementation of the new criminal laws. The laboratory is expected to help reduce delays in evidence examination and forensic reporting, strengthening scientific investigation and speeding up the disposal of criminal cases.