NEW DELHI - At least 35 people were confirmed dead and many remained missing after a ferry capsized in heavy storm upon a giant river in the northeast Indian state of Assam on Monday, said police.

The ferry, which was carrying at least 250 people, capsized and sank on the giant Brahmaputra river in Assam's western Dhubri district, after meeting a fierce storm and vicious weather, said police.

Police Deputy Commissioner Kumud Chandra Kalita of the Dhubri district told the media the boat was crossing the river from the Dhubrighat, which is a fishing port, when it capsized.

About 25 people swam to safety, he said.

The rescue work has been suspended Monday evening due to darkness and bad weather, while senior district officials rushed to the spot.

The area of the river was near India's border with Bangladesh and has a huge area of water like a gigantic lake.