DHAKA - At least 17 people were killed and scores injured on Monday after two trains collided in eastern Bangladesh, Reuters reported, citing the police.

A passenger train crashed into a freight train in Bhairab, about 80 kilometres (50 miles) northeast of the capital Dhaka.

"Seventeen bodies have been recovered and many injured taken to hospital," said Anowar Hossain, superintendent of Dhaka Railway Police, adding the death toll could climb as rescue operations were ongoing.

The freight train smashed into the passenger train from behind, crumpling two coaches, he said.

"Initial reports suggest the freight train broke the signal, leading to the tragedy," Hossain said.