Hyderabad: At least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims are feared dead after a bus carrying them from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker and caught fire in Saudi Arabia early Monday morning. Most of the victims are believed to be residents of Hyderabad and other parts of Telangana, according to preliminary information from local authorities and community coordinators.
The fatal crash occurred around 1:30 AM IST near Mufrihat, approximately 160 km from Medina. The impact of the collision triggered a massive blaze that engulfed the bus, leaving it completely charred and making identification of the bodies extremely difficult. Many passengers were reportedly asleep at the time of the incident. Unconfirmed reports suggest that only one person may have survived, though their condition remains unclear.
Saudi Civil Defence teams and police responded swiftly, launching rescue and recovery efforts. Authorities have not yet issued an official casualty count as the process of identifying the victims continues.
The incident has prompted urgent responses from both Indian and Telangana government agencies. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed deep shock and said the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah are providing “fullest support” to the affected families. The Indian Consulate in Jeddah has opened a 24×7 control room for assistance (Helpline: 8002440003).
In Telangana, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has directed senior officials to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi authorities. The state has set up helplines (+91 79979 59754, +91 99129 19545) for families seeking information. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi said he has been in touch with the Indian Embassy and the Foreign Secretary, urging swift repatriation of the bodies and support for survivors.
Saudi authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision and are working with Indian officials on identification and repatriation procedures. The final casualty figures and identities are expected to be released after forensic verification.
