Monday morning brought death and pain for Indian pilgrims on the Umrah pilgrimage. A bus traveling from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker in Saudi Arabia, sparking a fire that completely destroyed the bus. Media reports suggest at least 42 people have been killed in the tragic accident.
Many passengers were sleeping, there was no chance of escape.
The accident occurred near Muhras/Mufarihat, about 160 kilometers from Medina. The accident occurred at around 1:30 a.m., when most passengers were fast asleep. Many passengers had no chance of getting out immediately after the fire broke out. Rescue teams said the bus was completely burned, making it extremely difficult to identify the deceased. One person is believed to have survived, but their condition is currently unclear.
The number of women and children among the passengers is worrying.
According to information available so far, most of the deceased may be women and children. Some unofficial sources indicate that approximately 11 women and 10 children were involved in the accident. The number and identities of the deceased are being confirmed by Indian and Saudi authorities.
Saudi and Indian officials begin relief efforts
Saudi Civil Defence and police arrived at the scene immediately, while Indian officials and representatives of the Umrah Agency began assisting with relief and information coordination. Families of the pilgrims anxiously awaited updates in various cities, including Hyderabad.
Telangana government took immediate action
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed deep condolences over the accident. He directed the state Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to immediately gather all details, determine the number of affected people, and coordinate with the central government and the Saudi Embassy. The Chief Minister also said that immediate relief work should be ensured if necessary.
The tragedy has caused shock and anxiety for families who were praying for the safe journey of their loved ones. The holy pilgrimage that began in Mecca has now been fraught with uncertainty and grief .