📰 Tragedy in Saudi Arabia: Bus Carrying 43 Indian Umrah Pilgrims Catches Fire — Over 40 Feared Dead
Location: Saudi Arabia / India Desk
A devastating road accident in Saudi Arabia has claimed the lives of over 40 Indian Umrah pilgrims, most of whom were reportedly from Hyderabad, Telangana. The incident occurred during the early hours of Sunday when a bus travelling from Mecca to Medina collided with a fuel tanker and caught fire, leading to one of the deadliest accidents involving Indian nationals in recent years.
What Happened?
According to preliminary reports, the bus was carrying 46 passengers, part of a larger group of 54 pilgrims who had travelled from Hyderabad to Saudi Arabia on 9 November for Umrah.
Around 1:30 AM IST, the bus collided with a diesel tanker near the Mufrihat area on the Mecca–Medina highway. The impact caused the vehicle to burst into flames within seconds. Many passengers were reportedly asleep at the time, leaving them with little chance to escape.
Local authorities, emergency responders, and the Indian Embassy quickly reached the site, but the intensity of the fire made rescue operations extremely challenging.
Casualties and Survivors
Early estimates suggest that 42–45 passengers on board have died.
So far, only one confirmed survivor, identified as Mohd Abdul Shoiab from Hyderabad, is receiving treatment at a local hospital.
The majority of the deceased are believed to be Indian nationals from states including:
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Telangana (majority)
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Andhra Pradesh
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Karnataka
Official verification of identities is still underway.
Group Details
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The pilgrims had planned to return to India on 23 November.
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Of the 54 total group members:
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46 were travelling in the bus that crashed
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4 stayed back
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4 were travelling separately
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The bus was part of a private tour arrangement organized by local Umrah facilitators.
Government Response
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah have activated 24×7 helplines for affected families.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that it is in close coordination with Saudi authorities for:
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identity verification
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medical care for survivors
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repatriation of mortal remains
The Telangana government has also announced immediate support, including assistance to families and coordination with central agencies.
Prime Minister and top political leaders across India have expressed grief, calling the incident “deeply distressing” and promising full diplomatic support.
Visuals From the Scene
Videos from the site show a massive plume of smoke and intense flames engulfing the bus shortly after the collision. By the time firefighters arrived, the vehicle was almost completely destroyed.
Authorities are now examining:
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road conditions
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fuel tanker movement
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bus maintenance records
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possible driver fatigue
A detailed investigation has been initiated.
Reactions From Families in India
Families of the pilgrims in Hyderabad and nearby districts are devastated as they await official confirmation and updates. Many have expressed concerns about how such incidents can occur during organized religious tours, calling for stricter safety regulations for transport providers in Saudi Arabia.
A Continuing Story
This incident has once again raised concerns about road safety during the Umrah season, when thousands of pilgrims from around the world travel across Saudi highways.
More updates are expected as authorities complete identification procedures and finalize repatriation steps.
This is a developing story.
Further details will be updated as confirmed information becomes available.
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