Saudi Bus Accident: 42 Indian Umrah Pilgrims Feared Dead In Bus-Tanker Collision Near Medina

An accident involving a bus carrying Umrah pilgrims and a diesel tanker near Medina, Saudi Arabia, has resulted in the confirmed deaths of at least 42 people from India. The incident occurred early Monday, with local media confirming the toll.

The victims are believed to be Indian nationals, with numerous reports indicating they hail from the city of Hyderabad in the Indian state of Telangana. The pilgrims were traveling on a bus from Mecca to Medina, having completed their rituals. The collision, which reportedly caused the bus to catch fire and char the passengers, occurred around 1:30 am IST at a location identified as Mufrihat.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed shock over the tragedy and said that the Indian government is giving full support to the families affected by the accident.

"Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medina, Saudi Arabia. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving the fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident," the minister said in a post on X.

"Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," he added.

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has expressed his shock over the incident and instructed the state's Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to ascertain the full details, focusing on the number of victims belonging to Telangana. He ordered officials to liaise with the Central Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to coordinate relief efforts, establishing a control room at the Secretariat to manage the situation.

Meanwhile, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi contacted the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), Abu Mathen George, at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, who assured him that local authorities are compiling information. Owaisi, who had obtained passenger details from two Hyderabad-based travel agencies, shared this crucial information with the Embassy and the Foreign Secretary. The MP publicly appealed to the Union Government and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to take urgent steps for the repatriation of the bodies and to ensure the provision of proper medical treatment for any individuals who may have been injured in the accident.