45 Indian Umrah Pilgrims Feared Dead in Saudi Bus Crash
A significant tragedy occurred in Saudi Arabia on Monday, November 17, 2025, when a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker near Medina, resulting in the deaths of 45 Indian nationals. Initial reports indicate that the accident happened approximately 25 kilometers from Medina, where the pilgrims were headed after a week-long stay in Mecca.
There were 46 passengers on board, with only one survivor currently receiving treatment at a local hospital. The identities of the deceased are being verified, but most of the victims are believed to be from Hyderabad and various districts of Telangana.
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed deep shock over the incident and assured full support for the affected families. He confirmed that the state government is in constant communication with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. “I have instructed all officials to coordinate with Saudi authorities and ensure immediate relief measures,” the Chief Minister directed on Monday morning.
In response to the tragedy, a 24/7 control room has been established at the Consulate General of India in Jeddah, and a toll-free number for assistance is available: 8002440003. Additionally, a dedicated help desk has been set up at Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi to support families seeking information. Senior officials are collaborating with embassy staff to confirm identities and process necessary documentation.
Local Saudi media reported that the collision was particularly severe, with the diesel tanker catching fire shortly after the impact, resulting in extensive damage and casualties. Images from the scene showed the charred remains of the bus, complicating recovery efforts.
Reports suggest that the accident occurred at dawn as the pilgrims were en route to Medina to offer prayers at Masjid-e-Nabawi, which is the second-holiest site in Islam.
The tragedy has elicited strong emotional responses across Telangana, with several families anxiously awaiting confirmation regarding their relatives’ status. Religious organizations and travel agencies are working alongside the Indian government to assist.
An official announcement from the Indian government is expected once full verification is completed. Efforts are currently underway to recover the bodies and arrange for their repatriation to India.
This accident marks one of the deadliest incidents involving Indian nationals during Umrah travel in recent years, raising serious concerns about road safety and passenger transport conditions in the region. Authorities have urged families to remain in contact with official helplines and to refrain from sharing unverified information circulating on social media.
