Saudi Arabia Bus Accident A devastating tragedy struck on the Medina–Mecca highway in Saudi Arabia as a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker, catching fire and killing at least 42 Indians—many reportedly from Hyderabad. The incident occurred near Mufrihat around 1:30 a.m. IST, leaving only one confirmed survivor, Mohd Abdul Shoiab, whose condition is still unknown.
Saudi Arabia Bus Accident What Happened?
The bus, reportedly on the way from Makkah to Medina, was carrying 43 passengers—mainly Indian nationals, with a significant number of women and children. Most were asleep at the time of the crash, which left little opportunity to escape when the bus burst into flames. Rescue teams found the vehicle completely charred, making identification of the deceased extremely challenging.
Response and Assistance
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed their condolences, assuring support and immediate relief measures for the bereaved families.
- The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah have mobilized teams to coordinate with Saudi authorities, local hospitals, and Umrah operators for evacuation, identification, and repatriation.
- Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi remains in contact with Indian and Saudi officials to expedite aid and information for affected families.
Emergency Helplines
- Secretariat Control Room (India): +91 79979 59754, +91 99129 19545
- Consulate General of India, Jeddah (24×7): Toll free 8002440003
Victim Details
According to local reports:
- Majority of the victims were from Hyderabad, Telangana.
- Unofficial sources suggest 11 women and 10 children are among the dead.
- Rescues and identification are ongoing, with official numbers still being verified.
Official Statements
- “Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing 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.” – S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister.
- Telangana government has set up a dedicated control room to assist victims’ families and monitor ongoing relief and repatriation efforts.
Conclusion
This tragic bus accident has left families in deep grief and raised concerns about the safety of Indian nationals during religious pilgrimages abroad. All eyes are now on the authorities for a swift, sensitive response—including repatriation of bodies and ongoing medical support for any survivors.
