45 pilgrims from Hyd killed in Saudi bus crash
The impact of the crash was severe, leaving multiple passengers dead and several others injured, according to initial reports
image for illustrative purpose
Hyderabad: At least 45 Indian Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad died after a bus travelling from Mecca to Madinah collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat in Saudi Arabia early Monday.
The impact of the crash was severe, leaving multiple passengers dead and several others injured, according to initial reports.
Emergency teams and local authorities rushed to the spot to carry out rescue and relief operations. Officials are still verifying the exact number of casualties and identifying the victims.
The accident took place approximately 25 kilometres before reaching Medina.
Officials in Telangana and Delhi have opened dedicated control rooms to assist families and coordinate with authorities abroad. Teams from both governments are working closely with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to verify information, track the condition of the injured and facilitate support for those affected.
According to preliminary reports, the force of the collision left the vehicle severely damaged, making rescue operations difficult. Local emergency teams moved the injured to nearby hospitals, while efforts are underway to identify all the victims.
Families in India have been trying to reach their relatives, many of them waiting for official confirmation. State officials have urged people to rely only on verified updates issued through the control rooms.
The Ministry of External Affairs is monitoring the situation, and diplomatic channels have been activated to ensure that medical, consular and logistical assistance reaches the survivors and the families of the deceased.
The tragedy has triggered widespread grief across Telangana and other states. Leaders have expressed condolences and called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
