Indian Pilgrims Feared Dead in Saudi Bus Collision Near Medina

Dozens of Indian religious pilgrims are feared dead following a tragic bus accident near the holy city of Medina, Saudi Arabia, on October 23, 2023. The bus, carrying 46 people, collided with a diesel tanker while en route from Mecca to Medina. Gaurav Uppal, a senior official from Telangana, confirmed the details to The Associated Press.

Uppal reported that around 45 individuals from Telangana are presumed dead, with one person sustaining injuries. He is coordinating rescue efforts with Indian authorities in Saudi Arabia from New Delhi. “The situation is grave, and we are working to provide support to the families affected,” he stated.

Relatives of the victims have gathered outside the Fly Zone travel agency’s office in Hyderabad, seeking information about their loved ones. Mohammed Tehseen, whose family members were aboard the bus, revealed that seven of his relatives were on the trip, with all but one confirmed deceased. “The survivor called us after the accident to inform us about the tragedy,” he shared.

Preliminary reports indicate that at least 18 victims were from Hyderabad. The police chief of Hyderabad, Vishwanath Channappa Sajjanar, identified the injured passenger as Mohammed Shoaib. “I spoke to the Consul General of India and received details regarding the incident,” Sajjanar stated at a news conference. “There were 46 people on the bus, and only one passenger survived with injuries.”

Saudi officials have not yet issued a response regarding the incident.

Official Condolences and Support Efforts

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and Telangana’s Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, have expressed their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. In a message on the platform X, Jaishankar confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the consulate in Jeddah are providing assistance to the relatives of the victims.

Sajjanar mentioned that police are in contact with the Fly Zone travel agency, which organized the pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Efforts are underway to coordinate further support for the families during this difficult time.

As investigations continue, the Indian government is expected to take steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad, particularly in regions where large groups travel for religious purposes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with travel, especially in foreign countries.