Post by : Rameen Ariff

A heartbreaking incident occurred early Monday morning in Saudi Arabia, taking the lives of at least 42 individuals when a bus carrying Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat, not far from Medina. Reports indicate that many victims were from Hyderabad in Telangana. This tragedy has deeply affected the pilgrim community, prompting an immediate response from both Indian and Saudi officials.

The bus, en route from Mecca to Medina, was in an accident around 1:30 AM IST, as detailed by local media. The passengers had completed their Umrah rituals and were heading to Medina for the next stage of their spiritual journey.

Fire Erupted Within Minutes

According to Gulf News, many pilgrims were asleep during the crash, leaving them with little time to escape. The impact caused a significant fire, resulting in the bus being engulfed in flames almost immediately.

Rescue teams made significant efforts to reach the site but faced challenges in identifying the deceased due to the extensive damage caused by the fire. Initial reports confirm that among the deceased are 11 women and 10 children, though authorities are still verifying these numbers.

A passenger named Mohd Abdul Shoiab was rescued and transported to a nearby medical facility, but his condition remains unconfirmed.

Most Victims Hailing from Telangana

Several individuals who lost their lives had organized their pilgrimage through two agencies based in Hyderabad—Al-Meena Hajj and Umrah Travels. The families of the victims are grappling with the heartbreaking news as the incident details unfold.

The Telangana government has responded swiftly, maintaining contact with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has tasked state officials with working closely with embassy representatives to gather precise information about the victims. A dedicated control room has been established at the Telangana Secretariat to assist affected families.

Indian Embassy Mobilizes for Support

In response, the Indian Consulate in Jeddah has set up a 24/7 emergency control room to aid families and coordinate with Saudi officials for victim identification, support to survivors, and the safe return of remains to India.

Grief Continues to Spread as Leaders React

Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed that all 42 victims were Indian nationals. He is in communication with Abu Mathen George, Deputy Chief of Mission in Riyadh, who assured him that comprehensive details are being collected. Owaisi urged the central government to expedite the repatriation of the deceased and provide urgent medical attention for the injured.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his condolences via social media, stating:
"Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are offering full support to affected Indian nationals and families. My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured."

A Heartbreaking End to a Sacred Journey

What should have been a revered spiritual journey has turned into a tragic loss. Families in Hyderabad and across India are anxiously awaiting news as officials work to confirm identities and plan for repatriation. While investigations into the crash continue, the widespread impact of this tragedy is felt deeply in communities both in India and abroad.

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