A tragic bus accident in Saudi Arabia has claimed the lives of 45 Indian pilgrims, most of whom were from Hyderabad, Telangana. The devastating crash occurred around 1.30 am (IST) near Medina when the bus, carrying Umrah pilgrims from Mecca to Medina, collided with a diesel tanker and caught fire. Only one person survived the horrific incident, leaving families and communities in deep grief and mourning.
The victims included 20 women and 11 children, many of whom were asleep when the accident happened, which made escape impossible as the bus was engulfed in flames. Among the victims were 18 members of a single Hyderabad family spanning three generations.
The official toll and identifications have been confirmed by Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar, who stated that rescue operations were challenged by the fire and severity of the crash. Local residents rushed to assist with water and blankets, but the damage was extensive.
What led to the accident?​
The cause of the accident is reported to be a collision with a diesel tanker near the town of Mufrihat. The bus reportedly overturned and caught fire immediately after the collision. Investigations are ongoing, but preliminary reports suggest the high speed and darkness may have contributed to the tragedy.​
The Indian government expressed profound sorrow over the accident. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing full assistance to the victims’ families.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed deep shock and assured coordination for relief and support efforts in Saudi Arabia. A control room has been set up to help families and coordinate the necessary aid.​​
The Telangana government, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, responded swiftly. CM Reddy expressed grief and directed officials, including the Chief Secretary and DGP, to coordinate with Indian and Saudi authorities for support and repatriation. Telangana’s Minorities Welfare Minister Mohammad Azharuddin has been appointed to lead a relief team to Saudi Arabia.
The state government announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families of each deceased pilgrim. Two relatives of each victim will be flown to Saudi Arabia, and the bodies will be buried there according to religious customs.​