In a message to his Indian counterpart, President Ram Nath Kovind, President Maithripala Sirisena said it is with deep sadness that he learned of the tragic loss of lives and injury to many, following the unfortunate train accident and assured of his highest consideration.

"The Government and the people of Sri Lanka join me in conveying our profound condolences to Your Excellency, and through you to the bereaved families."

He said "Sri Lanka stands in solidarity with the people of India at this time of difficulty and, our thoughts and prayers are with those affected."

In a message to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the President said he was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of lives and injury to many following the tragic incident.

"The people of Sri Lanka join me in extending heartfelt condolences to you, the Government and people of India, in particularly the families of the bereaved and those affected by this tragic accident.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the people of India during this difficult time. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration."

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was in India on an official visit from October 18 -20, In a message to his counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his "heartfelt condolences" to the aggrieved families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

"I am deeply saddened to hear about the tragic train accident in Amritsar last night causing death to over 60 people and injuring many who were taking part in the Dussehra celebrations."

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to the aggrieved families of the victims. I wish the injured a speedy recovery," he said.

A commuter train travelling at high speed in Amritsar, in Punjab State struck a crowd of people on the rail tracks watching a Ravana effigy being burnt during a Dussehra celebration. The Civil Hospital in Amritsar has said that 60 people were killed and at least 51 people were injured.