At least 45 Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad have been confirmed dead following a tragic bus accident that occurred early Monday morning. A passenger bus, which was traveling from Mecca to Madinah, collided with a diesel tanker around 1:30 a.m. IST in the Mufrihat area of Saudi Arabia, resulting in significant fatalities.
Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar reported that 45 of the 46 passengers aboard perished at the scene, with only one survivor, Md Abdul Shoaib, currently hospitalized in critical condition. The accident took place approximately 25 kilometers from Medina, and the bus caught fire after the collision.
Originally, 54 pilgrims were part of the group traveling between November 9 and 23. However, four had chosen to travel separately, and another four remained in Mecca, leaving 46 passengers on the bus at the time of the incident. The passengers were affiliated with various travel agencies, including Al Makkah (15 travelers), Baab Ul Harmain (21), Hafsa (5), and Mahmood Bhaijaan (4). Among the deceased are 28 women and 17 men.
In response to the incident, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah issued a press release indicating the establishment of a 24/7 control room to support affected families. Helpline numbers provided include: 8002440003 (toll-free), 00966122614093, 00966126614276, and 00966556122301 (WhatsApp). The Consulate expressed its “deepest condolences to the bereaved families” and confirmed ongoing coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah, as well as local authorities.
A team of consulate officials and Indian community volunteers are on-site at hospitals and the accident location to gather information and assist survivors. Indian officials are also working with authorities in Telangana to support families of the deceased. The Embassy of India in Saudi Arabia expressed its condolences and confirmed efforts to provide “all possible assistance” to those impacted by the tragedy.
Relatives of the victims gathered with anxiety at a Hyderabad travel agency after learning about the accident. Mohammed Tehseen, who has relatives among the deceased, stated, “Seven members from my family went to Saudi Arabia. They travelled to Saudi Arabia last week. We request the Union Government to bring the bodies to India. They were travelling to Medinah from Mecca.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, noting, “Deeply saddened by the accident in Medinah involving Indian nationals. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with Saudi Arabian authorities.”
Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju shared his shock at the incident, stating, “I’m shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic bus accident on the Medina–Mecca highway in Saudi Arabia that claimed the lives of Indian pilgrims. We are in touch with our Embassy officials who are gathering more details and extending all possible assistance. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers for strength in this difficult time.” He also reiterated the helpline numbers provided by the Consulate.
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