Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed distress and pain over the loss of lives in twin train accident in Madhya Pradesh and said authorities are doing everything possible on the ground.

"The two train accidents in Madhya Pradesh are deeply distressing. Deeply pained over the loss of lives. Condolences to families of deceased," Modi tweeted.

At least 20 passengers were so far killed after two trains derailed while crossing a swollen Machak river near Harda in Madhya Pradesh even as rescue operations continued through the night, officials said today.

According to West Central Railway PRO Piyush Mathur, seven coaches of Kamayani Express and three coaches plus the engine of Janata Express were derailed late last night as the base material on the tracks got washed away.

"My prayers with the injured. Authorities are doing everything possible on the ground. The situation is being monitored very closely," Modi said in another tweet.

Meanwhile, rescue operations continued even as several passengers were feared trapped in water after coaches of both the train plunged into the river.