Over 40 Indians feared dead in Saudi Arabia: Medina-bound bus collides with diesel tanker; majority pilgrims from Hyderabad

Over 40 Indians are feared dead in a tragic accident in Saudi Arabia after a Medina-bound bus carrying Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker, resulting in a massive fire that completely gutted the vehicle. The bus, which was travelling from Mecca to Medina, had around 43 passengers on board, with a majority of them reported to be from Hyderabad, Telangana. Initial reports indicate that at least 42 pilgrims may have lost their lives, including women and children, while only one survivor has been found and is currently hospitalized. The incident occurred near Mufrihat in the early hours, and the impact of the collision caused the diesel tanker to burst into flames, leaving rescuers with limited time to respond. The Telangana government has set up a control room to support affected families, while the Indian Consulate in Jeddah has activated a 24×7 helpline. Leaders including Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and MP Asaduddin Owaisi are in touch with authorities to expedite updates and ensure repatriation of bodies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured full support and coordination with Saudi officials. As investigations continue, the exact cause of the crash is yet to be determined, and identification of the victims is underway, leaving families in Hyderabad and across India anxiously awaiting confirmation.