DHAKA: Efforts to recover the bodies of at least 24 climbers have been suspended again after the eruption on Japan's Mount Ontake intensified. 

The volcano was shooting out even more ash, smoke and rocks than before, BBC reports. 

At least 36 people are thought to have died in Saturday's unexpected eruption.

Dozens of other people were injured in the incident on the mountain, which is about 200km (125 miles) west of Tokyo.

Hundreds of firefighters, police and troops have been involved in search operations.

Twelve bodies have been recovered so far. Another 24 are reported to be on the mountain, including five more located on Monday.

Japanese authorities only declare fatalities once the body has been examined by a doctor.

BDST: 1200 HRS, SEP 30, 2014