PM, President, Vice President condole loss of lives in Mecca accident

President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday condoled the loss of lives in the crane collapse at the Grand Mosque in Mecca in which some Indians were also injured.

"Heartfelt condolences to families of deceased due to crane crash in Mecca, prayers for speedy recovery of the injured," President Mukherjee tweeted. The Vice President expressed deep sadness over the accident at the Grand Mosque in Mecca that has resulted in casualties, a statement issued by his office said.

He called for every effort to render all possible aid to the injured and the bereaved families. Ansari conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes speedy recovery to the injured persons.  Prime Minister Modi, in a tweet, said, "My thoughts & prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives in the crane crash in Mecca. I wish the injured a quick recovery."

Over 100 people died when a massive construction crane crashed into Mecca's Grand Mosque on Friday with scores more injured, days before the annual Hajj pilgrimage. At least nine Indians were among the 80 people injured in the incident.

"Our Consulate in Jeddah is monitoring situation in Makkah following tragic accident. We have received reports that 9 Indian pilgrims are injured," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted yesterday.