Indians feared dead in Saudi Arabia bus crash as a tragic accident near Madinah claimed dozens of lives and left families across India in deep shock. According to early reports, a bus carrying Umrah pilgrims from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker around 1:30 am IST, causing a massive fire. Many passengers were asleep, giving them almost no chance to escape.
Moreover, Indian officials received information that the bus was carrying 54 pilgrims, mostly from Hyderabad, though eight had chosen private transport at the last moment. This decision likely saved their lives. Authorities are now working to confirm the exact number of casualties. Local media and witness accounts suggest that at least 45 people may have died, including 42 Indian nationals, while only one survivor, 24-year-old Mohd Abdul Shoiab, remains hospitalized.
Additionally, rescue teams at the crash site described the bus as completely charred, making identification extremely difficult. Indian community volunteers in Saudi Arabia immediately reached hospitals to support survivors and families. Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah began coordinating with Saudi authorities, the Hajj and Umrah Ministry, and local operators to gather accurate details.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and assured full assistance. He stated that officials remain in close contact with Saudi authorities and that the embassy teams are helping affected families. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also shared his condolences and confirmed that Indian missions are offering complete support.
In Hyderabad, distressed relatives rushed to a local travel agency after learning that most victims belonged to Telangana. State officials quickly set up control rooms in both Hyderabad and New Delhi. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy directed top officers to contact the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi Embassy to arrange relief measures. Senior officials are maintaining constant contact with Indian diplomats abroad.
In addition, a 24×7 helpline has been activated by the Consulate General of India in Jeddah through toll-free number 8002440003. While Telangana government helpline numbers have also been shared to assist families searching for information.
Umrah travel from India has grown rapidly in recent years, and many pilgrims choose budget travel options. The accident has raised concerns about bus safety standards and emergency preparedness on long-distance pilgrimage routes in Saudi Arabia. Officials believe that stronger vehicle checks, better-trained drivers, and more frequent inspections can prevent such tragedies.
As investigations continue, families in India wait anxiously for official confirmation of victims. Many community leaders have urged the government to push for quicker identification processes and safer travel arrangements for pilgrims.
In conclusion, Indians feared dead in Saudi Arabia bus crash, and authorities from both nations are now working together to support families, confirm identities, and understand how this devastating accident occurred. The hope is that stronger safety measures will protect future travellers and prevent more heartbreaking losses.
