Indian Pilgrims' Deaths: Jaishankar Ensures Aid After Saudi Bus Tragedy

Post by : Raina Nasser

A catastrophic collision in Saudi Arabia has resulted in the deaths of at least 42 Indian pilgrims, primarily from Hyderabad. The accident occurred early Monday as a bus transporting them from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat. Reports suggest that most of the passengers were asleep when the crash took place, leading to minimal chances of escape as the bus quickly caught fire. Shockingly, only one individual has been reported to have survived.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his profound sorrow regarding the tragic incident, assuring that the Indian embassy in Riyadh and the consulate in Jeddah are fully engaged in providing support to those affected. On X, Jaishankar stated, “Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medina, Saudi Arabia. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”

Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi, representing many victims' constituencies, confirmed that 42 pilgrims from his region were aboard the ill-fated bus. He is in close collaboration with Abu Mathen George, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, to gather essential details. Owaisi has also been in contact with two local travel agencies to provide pertinent information to the authorities and has urged the Union Government to ensure the safe return of the deceased to India as well as adequate medical care for the injured.

The Consulate General of India in Jeddah described the accident as a “tragic” event and has set up a 24/7 control room to assist the affected families and coordinate with local authorities. The crash has sent shockwaves through communities in Hyderabad and across India, highlighting the risks faced by pilgrims on foreign roads and the critical need for efficient emergency preparedness.

This incident also brings attention to ongoing discussions about road safety and regulatory measures for long-distance pilgrim transportation in Saudi Arabia. Rescue operations are still in progress, with authorities working to confirm the identities of victims, especially since many were asleep during the incident and the bus was engulfed in flames.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed his sorrow regarding the tragic event, instructing state officials to coordinate with embassy staff to provide thorough support for the families impacted. Meanwhile, Indian officials continue to stay updated on events, ensuring that survivors receive timely medical attention and that assistance reaches bereaved families.

This heartbreaking incident has captured national attention, stressing the human toll of accidents amidst religious pilgrimages and reinforcing the urgent necessity for improved safety protocols for pilgrims abroad.