Nearly 70 people have been killed after a passenger train collided with a freight train in the eastern  Indian state of Odisha. According to India Today, government officials reported that the collision happened at approximately 19:20 local time (13:45 GMT).  

The passenger train was on its way from Calcutta to Chennai. Four derailed passenger train carriages can be seen in footage from the train collision scene.

Odisha States Chief Secretary Pradeep Jena was quoted by the Press Trust of India saying "An unfortunate accident took place between Coromandel Express, a goods train, and another passenger train near Bahanaga Railway Station in Balasore district. Three National Disaster Response Forces teams have been dispersed and the rescue operation has started."

Narendra Modi, the Indian Prime Minister, extended his condolences to the families of those killed.

Modi Tweeted that he was distressed by the accident and wished a speedy recovery for those involved. " Rescue ops are underway at the site of the mishap and all possible assistance is being given to those affected," he added.

According to Indian officials, at least 179 persons were hurt and brought to local hospitals and medical schools. The number of injuries could be up to 350 according to media reports.

Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha, arrived at the scene of the accident to monitor the rescue operation, which is being led by Sudhanshu Sarangi, the Chief of the State Fire Service. The rescue effort involves more than 100 members of the National Disaster Response Forces and their regional counterparts, fearing that some passengers may still be trapped under the wrecked carriages.