At least 45 Indian Umrah pilgrims, mostly from Hyderabad, were killed early Sunday when a bus carrying them collided with a diesel tanker near Madinah, local media reported. The crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. near Mufrihat, as the group was travelling from Makkah to Madinah after completing their pilgrimage rituals. The bus caught fire, leaving little chance of escape for sleeping passengers.
According to Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar, 54 people from Hyderabad had travelled to Saudi Arabia on November 9, with plans to return on November 23. Of these, 46 were on the ill-fated bus. Four had travelled separately by car to Madinah, and another four remained in Makkah. Only one passenger survived and is currently receiving hospital treatment.
The Indian government and Telangana authorities have been in close contact with the Indian embassy in Riyadh. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy directed officials in New Delhi to coordinate with embassy representatives to support affected families and facilitate the return of the deceased. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi called for immediate intervention from the Ministry of External Affairs, urging prompt repatriation of bodies and medical assistance for survivors.
The scene of the accident was described as horrific, with the bus completely burnt and the identification of victims extremely difficult. The Indian Consulate in Jeddah has established a 24/7 control room and toll-free helpline to assist families seeking information.
Authorities confirmed that the victims were largely from Hyderabad and expressed deep condolences to the families. Rescue teams continue to manage the aftermath of the accident, as families anxiously await updates. Officials have emphasised their commitment to ensuring support, proper identification, and repatriation processes for the deceased.