New Delhi, March 20 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed their grief at the loss of lives in a train accident in Uttar Pradesh.

At least 27 people were killed when the engine and two crowded coaches of the Dehradun-Varanasi Janata Express derailed near Rae Bareli town early on Friday.

In a message to Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik, the president said: "I am sad to learn about the derailment of a train in Rae Bareli district... some people have lost their lives and many others are injured..."

"Please convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I wish speedy recovery to the injured persons," he said.

Mukherjee also called upon the state government and railway authorities to provide all possible assistance to the bereaved families as well as the best of medical attention to the injured.

Prime Minister Modi also expressed his grief at the loss of lives in the accident.

"The prime minister has asked the railway minister to closely monitor the situation and ensure speedy relief and assistance at the spot," said an official statement.