A heartbreaking bus accident in Saudi Arabia has left families in India shaken, particularly in Telangana, after a bus with Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker around Mufrihat, which is situated between Badr and Medina. Subsequently, a large explosion transpired, leading to early reports that more than 42 Indian pilgrims, many of whom are from Hyderabad, were feared dead. The reports also suggest that at least one survivor has been accounted for as search and recovery operations have officially commenced, according to Latest News Updates.
What Happened in the Saudi Arabia Bus Crash?
According to reports, the bus was returning travellers to Medina when it collided with a fuel tanker, around 1:30 AM EST. Fire broke out almost instantly. Many passengers had already slept prior to the collision, which contributed to the magnitude of casualties. Certainly, there were several women and children feared dead, according to initial reports from local officials.
Saudi teams have reported recovering bodies with the help of Indian officials, recognising that many of the deceased bodies became charred from the explosion.
Indian Consulate Opens 24×7 Helpdesk
In quick response, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah opened a 24×7 control room for affected families with helpline numbers to find support:
- Toll Free (Saudi): 800 244 0003
- Local Lines: 0122614093, 0126614276
- WhatsApp Support: 0556122301
At the same time, the Telangana government has opened emergency contacts, which are:
- +91 79979 59754
- +91 99129 19545
Families are advised to only use official helplines for verified updates.
Indian Government Responds
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed profound sadness regarding the situation, indicating that ” both the Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah are providing full assistance.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences for the lives lost and reassured that the Government of India is fully working with the Saudi authorities to assist those families affected by the tragedy, and that arrangements are being made.
Telangana Govt Coordinates With Centre, While the Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy mandated high officials to
“Immediately collect the details, keep in touch with the Indian Consulate, and assist with families in Hyderabad.”
Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed that there were 42 Indian pilgrims aboard and urged the Centre to ensure a swift repatriation of bodies and treatment for those who survived. In relation to the identification of victims and the repatriation process,
Both Indian and Saudi authorities are in the process of examining the lists of passengers and are working to identify who the victims are, along with making arrangements for medical treatment as required.
Due to the heavy damage caused by the fire and the subsequent impact on the aircraft, identification will take time. Additionally, leaders are also advocating for full transparency and a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the crash.
