45 pilgrims from Hyderabad die in Saudi Arabia bus crash

At least 45 Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad were killed after a passenger bus on the way from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker early Monday morning in Saudi Arabia.

The accident reportedly occurred around 1.30 am (IST) in the Mufrihat area. Only one survivor has so far been traced and is undergoing treatment at a local hospital. Most of the victims were part of a Hyderabad-based group that included women and children, sources said.

Describing the incident as “deeply distressing”, Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar said preliminary reports suggested that 46 people were on board the bus at the time of the crash.

“Heartbreakingly, only one person survived,” he said, adding that the Telangana Government was coordinating with the authorities in Saudi Arabia to gather complete details. PM Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy involving Indian nationals. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. “India’s Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance,” he posted on X, adding that Indian officials were in close touch with the Saudi authorities.

Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy conveyed condolences and directed Chief Secretary K Ramakrishna Rao and DGP Anjani Kumar to verify the identities of the victims and ascertain how many were from Telangana.

Narendra Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the accident in Medina 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."