Fatal Bus Accident Claims 45 Indian Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
An accident involving a bus near Medina, Saudi Arabia, has resulted in the deaths of 45 Indian pilgrims. The incident occurred as the pilgrims were traveling from the Islamic holy city of Mecca to Medina.
Details of the Incident
The bus was transporting 46 passengers. Most of the individuals who died were from Hyderabad, located in India's southern Telangana state. One survivor of the accident has been admitted to an intensive care unit at a local hospital.
The pilgrims were participating in the Umrah pilgrimage. Hyderabad City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar confirmed the fatalities and indicated that an oil tanker was involved in the collision, though specific details regarding its role were not provided.
Official Response and Assistance
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the incident, stating that Indian authorities are coordinating with officials in Saudi Arabia. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are reportedly providing support.
Control rooms have been established in Jeddah and Hyderabad to assist the families of the victims. Asaduddin Owaisi, a Member of Parliament representing Hyderabad, has requested the federal government's assistance for the repatriation of the bodies.
Pilgrim Group Information
According to VC Sajjanar, a group of 54 individuals from Hyderabad departed for Jeddah on November 9 to undertake the pilgrimage. The group's arrangements prior to the accident included:
- Four individuals remained in Mecca.
- Four individuals traveled to Medina via car.
- The remaining 46 individuals were aboard the bus involved in the accident.
A survivor, identified as Shoaib, reportedly contacted a relative in Hyderabad, Mohammed Tehseen. Mr. Tehseen confirmed that seven of his relatives were among the bus passengers.