The crash left part of one train lying in a paddy field.

The trains, both travelling from the capital Jakarta to the city of Surabaya, were carrying hundreds of passengers.

Reports suggest one train crashed into the back of the second, stationary train. One of the train drivers is believed to be among the dead.

Officials said it would take at least a day to clear the wreckage.

Rescuers have been scouring the scene, looking for bodies and survivors who may be still trapped.