45 Indians killed in Saudi bus accident, many from Hyderabad

New Delhi | Desk: Forty-Five Indian nationals were killed in a tragic road accident in Saudi Arabia late Monday night when a bus carrying Umrah pilgrims from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker and caught fire. According to initial reports, only the bus driver survived. The deceased included 20 women and 11 children, with many believed to be residents of Hyderabad.

The accident occurred around 1:30 a.m. IST near Muhras, approximately 160 km from Medina. Most passengers were asleep at the time, leaving them little chance of escape.

The Telangana government has stated that it is in regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. A government statement said Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has instructed officials in Delhi to coordinate closely with embassy authorities to assist in identifying the victims and completing necessary formalities.

Embassy Sets Up Helpline

The Indian Consulate General in Jeddah has established a 24x7 control room for assistance. The helpline number provided by the consulate is 8002440003.

The Telangana government has also opened a control room at the state secretariat for families seeking information. Relatives can contact 79979-59754 or 99129-19545.

Owaisi Appeals for Repatriation of Bodies

Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He told ANI that he has contacted two travel agencies in Hyderabad and shared passenger details with the Indian Embassy. He also spoke with Abu Mathan George, Deputy Chief of Mission in Riyadh, who assured him that information is being collected from local authorities.

Owaisi appealed to the central government and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to ensure swift repatriation of the bodies and proper treatment for the injured.

Jaishankar Expresses Shock

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said he was “deeply shocked” by the tragedy and assured that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh is extending full support to the victims’ families.