At least 42 Hyderabadi Indian Umrah pilgrims died after a bus travelling from Mecca to Madinah collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat in Saudi Arabia this Monday. The crash ignited a tragic fire that set ablaze many passengers beyond recognition. The incident occurred around 1:30 am IST, when the passengers were assumed to be asleep.
Emergency teams and local authorities reached the tragic scene and carried out rescue and relief operations. Meanwhile, officials are yet to verify the exact number of casualties, and identifications of the victims are underway.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar posted on X, “Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medinah, Saudi Arabia. Our embassy in Riyadh and consulate in Jeddah are giving the fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi said while talking to ANI, “…Forty-two Hajj pilgrims who were travelling from Mecca to Medina were on a bus that caught fire… I spoke to Abu Mathen George, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, and he assured me that they are gathering information about the matter. I have contacted two Hyderabad-based travel agencies and shared the passengers’ details with the Riyadh Embassy and the Foreign Secretary. I request the Union Government, especially EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar, to bring the bodies back to India and, if anyone is injured, ensure that they receive proper medical treatment.”
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said on X, “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 & extending all possible assistance.
My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.”
