At least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims are feared dead after a devastating road accident involving a passenger bus and a diesel tanker in Saudi Arabia early Monday, November 17. The victims were reportedly travelling from Mecca to Medina when the collision occurred near Mufrihat, triggering a massive fire that engulfed the bus.
Rescue Operations Underway
Local emergency teams rushed to the scene, but the intensity of the blaze has made recovery efforts challenging. Authorities are still working to confirm the exact number of casualties and identify the victims.
Telangana Government Responds
A large number of the passengers are believed to be from Hyderabad, prompting the Telangana government to initiate urgent measures. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy directed officials to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi Embassy, and has set up a dedicated control room at the state secretariat to assist families.
Indian Mission Sets Up Helpline
The Indian Consulate in Jeddah has opened a 24×7 helpline for relatives seeking information about the passengers. Officials said they are in touch with Saudi authorities to facilitate identification and provide support.
Leaders Express Condolences
Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi expressed deep sorrow, stating that he has been in touch with travel agencies and the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to ensure the bodies are brought home and injured pilgrims receive full medical care.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called the incident “deeply shocking,” assuring that Indian diplomatic missions are providing the “fullest support” to affected families.
