Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: A horrific bus collision on the Mecca–Medina route in Saudi Arabia has left 42 Umrah pilgrims, mostly Indians from Hyderabad and Telangana, feared dead. Officials confirmed that only one person survived the 1.30 am IST crash, which occurred when the bus collided with a diesel tanker.
Most Pilgrims Were Asleep During the Impact
The bus, carrying pilgrims returning from Mecca, crashed in the early hours of Monday. Many passengers, including women and children, were reportedly asleep when the impact occurred. Local residents rushed to assist rescue teams immediately, with on-ground reports suggesting that more than 40 passengers died on the spot. Telangana’s chief minister Revanth Reddy expressed shock and ordered officials to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs and Saudi authorities.
Control Rooms and Helplines Activated for Families
The Telangana government has set up a control room at the state Secretariat to support affected families. Helpline numbers: 79979 59754 and 99129 19545. Meanwhile, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has launched a 24×7 emergency helpline for assistance. Toll-free helpline: 8002440003. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and staying in continuous touch with Saudi officials.
Government and Political Leaders Express Grief
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the government is providing full support to all affected families and offered condolences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed deep sadness and prayed for the recovery of the injured. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed communication with travel agencies and Indian officials in Riyadh to assist with information and relief measures.
