At least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims lost their lives early Monday after their bus collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat, around 160 km from Madinah. Initial reports indicate only one survivor.
The pilgrims were returning from Makkah after completing their Umrah rituals when the accident occurred around 1:30 a.m. IST. There were 43 passengers on board, including 20 women and 11 children. The bus caught fire after the collision, leaving most passengers charred.
Telangana officials confirmed that 16 of the deceased were from Hyderabad’s Bazarghat area. Telangana IT Minister D. Sridhar Babu said authorities are verifying the identities of all victims. Families in Hyderabad have gathered anxiously, awaiting updates. Local travel agencies maintained close contact with the Indian Embassy and Saudi authorities.
A representative from Al Meena Travel Agency confirmed that the group had departed Hyderabad on November 9. “Sixteen of them were returning to Madinah, and their whereabouts were initially unknown,” he said. Named victims include Mohammad Manzoor, Zaheen Begum, Shaukat Begum, Farheen Begum, and others.
Saudi Civil Defence teams and police rushed to the scene for rescue and recovery. Officials from the Indian Embassy and Consulate in Jeddah coordinated with local authorities to assist families and identify the deceased. A 24×7 control room has been set up by the Indian Consulate for urgent support, alongside toll-free helplines.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed deep shock and assured that Indian missions are providing “fullest support” to the victims’ families. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy also activated emergency response measures, coordinating with the MEA and Saudi authorities.
The tragedy underscores the dangers faced by Umrah pilgrims traveling across long routes between holy cities. Efforts continue to assist survivors, repatriate bodies, and provide medical care. Authorities urge families and the public to stay updated through official channels.
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This incident has left both Hyderabad and India mourning the loss of devoted Umrah pilgrims, highlighting the importance of travel safety during religious journeys.
