In a shocking incident in Saudi Arabia, a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat, between Mecca and Madinah. Early reports suggest that at least 42 Indian nationals, many from Hyderabad, lost their lives in this powerful crash. Several others have been injured and are receiving medical treatment.
Emergency teams and local authorities rushed to the site to carry out rescue operations. The exact number of victims is still being confirmed, and authorities are working to identify those affected.
PM Modi Expresses Deep Sorrow
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences for the victims. He said he is deeply saddened by the Medinah accident and extended his thoughts to the families who lost loved ones. The PM confirmed that Indian officials in Riyadh and Jeddah are closely coordinating with Saudi authorities to provide all necessary assistance to those affected.
He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, emphasizing the government’s commitment to support the victims’ families.
External Affairs Minister Shares Shock
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed shock over the accident. He mentioned that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah are working to provide full support to the victims and their families.
Jaishankar assured that the Indian government is in constant touch with Saudi authorities to ensure proper care for the injured and smooth arrangements for the victims.
Telangana Government Responds
The Chief Minister of Telangana, A Revanth Reddy, immediately directed senior officials to collect complete details of the accident. The state government is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi Embassy to provide support to affected families.
A control room has been set up at the Telangana Secretariat to help families seeking information. The helplines are 79979 59754 and 99129 19545.
Political Leaders Seek Quick Repatriation
Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi expressed grief over the loss and urged the central government to ensure that the bodies of the deceased are brought back to India as soon as possible. He also called for proper medical care for those injured.
Owaisi has been in touch with the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and travel agencies in Hyderabad to verify the passenger list and coordinate with families.
Indian Consulate in Jeddah Sets Up 24×7 Helpline
The Consulate General of India in Jeddah has set up a 24×7 control room to provide assistance to Indian pilgrims. The helpline numbers include 8002440003, 00966122614093, 00966126614276, and 00966556122301 (WhatsApp).
Consulate officials, along with volunteers from the Indian community, are present at hospitals and key sites. They are coordinating with Saudi authorities and the Telangana government to provide updates and support to families.
Why Such Accidents Happen
Accidents like these highlight the risks during road travel, even in countries with developed infrastructure. Factors like heavy traffic, high-speed vehicles, driver fatigue, and large vehicle sizes contribute to such tragedies. Pilgrimage routes can be particularly crowded, increasing the chances of collisions.
Conclusion
The bus-tanker collision in Saudi Arabia is a heartbreaking tragedy for Indian pilgrims and their families. The Indian government and local authorities are working tirelessly to support the victims, repatriate the deceased, and treat the injured. It is a reminder of the importance of road safety and careful travel planning during religious journeys.
FAQs
How many Indian pilgrims died in the accident?
According to reports, at least 42 Indian pilgrims have lost their lives in the bus-tanker collision.
Where did the accident take place?
The collision happened near Mufrihat, on the route from Mecca to Madinah in Saudi Arabia.
Are there any injured survivors?
Yes, several pilgrims were injured in the accident and are receiving medical treatment at nearby hospitals.
What is the Indian government doing to help?
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are assisting victims and families. The government is coordinating with Saudi authorities to ensure proper care and repatriation of the deceased.
How can families get information about the victims?
Families can contact the 24×7 helpline set up by the Indian Consulate in Jeddah at 8002440003 or via WhatsApp at 00966556122301. Telangana state helplines are 79979 59754 and 99129 19545.