PM Modi Expresses Grief As 45 Indian Umrah Pilgrims Die In Saudi Arabia Bus Collision

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound grief over the tragic bus accident in Medina, Saudi Arabia, that involved several Indian nationals. He said the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah are closely tracking developments and providing all possible assistance to those affected.

"Deeply saddened by the accident in Medinah involving Indian nationals. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with Saudi Arabian authorities," the Prime Minister wrote in a post on X.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also conveyed his shock at the incident, stating that the Embassy and the Consulate were giving the "fullest support" to affected families. "Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," he posted.

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed deep concern after reports indicated that several victims were from Hyderabad. According to an official statement, he has contacted authorities in New Delhi and directed them to maintain close coordination with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh for real-time updates.

45 Umrah pilgrims killed

At least 45 Umrah pilgrims, including Indians, lost their lives after a bus carrying devotees collided with a diesel tanker near Madinah early Monday. The vehicle, transporting Indian pilgrims from Mecca to Madinah, met with the accident around 1:30 am. Initial reports suggest that most of the deceased were from Hyderabad.

The pilgrims were returning to Madinah after completing Umrah in Mecca, and many were asleep at the time of the crash. Among the deceased are 20 women and 11 children from Hyderabad. Local residents rushed to assist rescue teams, helping evacuate those seriously injured.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar said, "A total of 46 people were travelling in the bus; one survivor is under treatment. More details are awaited."

24x7 control room activated

In response to the tragedy, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has set up a 24x7 control room to support relatives and coordinate emergency measures. Officials confirmed that they remain in constant contact with Saudi authorities to gather updates on casualties, injured individuals, and hospitalisation details.