New Delhi: Eight people died by drowning and several others are feared missing after flash floods in the Mal river in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri district. The victims were participants in the ritualistic immersion of idols that mark the end of Durga Puja.

The incident took place in the evening when hundreds of people had gathered on the banks of the river.

"All of a sudden, flash floods struck and people were swept away. So far, eight bodies have been recovered, and we have rescued around 50 people," Jalpaiguri District Magistrate Moumita Godara told the news agency PTI.

"The search and rescue operations are underway and being carried out by teams of the NDRF, SDRF, police and local administration," she said.

Local media has reported that 16 people have been admitted to the local super-specialty hospital.

Anandabazar Patrika has reported on some eye witnesses having alleged that the Mal river's course has changed, compelling revellers to walk almost midway into the river's original path so as to be able to see the immersion.

The report also said that attendants had demonstrated against negligence by doctors towards patients who had been rescued.

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