New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, conveyed his profound sorrow over the deaths that occurred as a result of an accident during the Durga Puja celebrations in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal.

"Anguished by the accident that occurred during Durga Puja celebrations in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. deep Condolences to families who lost loved ones, "Prime Minister's Office tweeted.

Eight people have died in the Wednesday evening flash flood that occurred along the Mal River in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, Magistrate Moumita Godara Basu said. He said, adding that an investigation is underway to find if there were more casualties. Four women were among those who lost their lives in the tragic incident.

According to the district magistrate, those who suffered minor injuries have been admitted to a local hospital.
Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition in the Bengal Assembly, tweeted his sorrow over the tragedy. "A flash flood on the Mal river during the Durga Puja immersion has tragically claimed numerous lives in Jalpaiguri. Until now, few fatalities have been reported. I request @chief west & the DM of Jalpaiguri to intensify rescue operations immediately and help those who are in need."

When flash floods flooded the Mal River during the Wednesday Visarjan (immersion) of the Goddess Durga idol in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, Jalpaiguri SP Debarshi Dutta reported that seven persons killed and dozens were feared missing.

"During Durga Visarjan, a flash flood occurs in Jalpaiguri at the Mal River. Seven individuals were found dead, dozens were presumed to be missing, numerous others were stranded in the river, and numerous others were washed away. Seven people's bodies were found. NDRF and civil defence mobilised; rescue operations are underway, "said Debarshi Dutta.

The national defence  Personnel of the reserve force (NDRF) and civil defence were deployed in the search and rescue operations the police official said. 

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