Saudi Arabia: 42 Indian pilgrims feared dead in bus-tanker collision near Medina

At least 42 people lost their lives in a tragic incident near Medina after a bus transporting Umrah pilgrims crashed into a diesel tanker, Saudi local media reported on Monday. Many of those who died are believed to be Indian nationals, with initial information suggesting that several passengers were from Hyderabad. According to unconfirmed media reports, the bus was travelling from Mecca to Medina, with pilgrims heading to the holy city after completing their rituals in Mecca. All passengers were reportedly asleep when the crash occurred.

In the wake of the accident, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has set up a 24/7 control room and released helpline numbers for those seeking assistance. "In view of a tragic bus accident near Madina, Saudi Arabia, involving Indian Umrah pilgrims, a 24x7 Control Room has been set up in Consulate General of India, Jeddah," the Consulate posted on X.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar also expressed deep concern, saying, "Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medinah, Saudi Arabia. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving 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."

Rescue operations are underway and residents have rushed to the scene to assist those severely injured. The exact number of casualties has not yet been officially confirmed.

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy also condoled the loss of lives in the horrific accident involving a bus carrying Indian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. The state government has also set up a control room in Hyderabad to provide information and assistance to the families of the accident victims.

With IANS inputs