2 hours ago
Last Updated:November 17, 2025, 10:26 IST
At least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims, many from Hyderabad, are feared dead after their bus collided with a diesel tanker and caught fire in Saudi Arabia.
A file photo of the Saudi Arabia Police (AP)
At least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims were feared dead after a passenger bus travelling from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker in Saudi Arabia early Monday, according to media reports.
The crash, which occurred at nearly 1.30 am IST, reportedly caused the bus to catch fire while most passengers were asleep.
Preliminary information cited in media reports suggests that a majority of the victims were from Hyderabad, including several women and children.
Rescue operations were underway through the night, with locals rushing to the spot to assist those critically injured.
Media reports also suggest that more than 40 passengers may have died on the spot, though an official casualty count was awaited.
Reacting to the tragedy, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi, talking to reporters, said he had contacted two Hyderabad-based travel agencies and shared passenger details with Indian authorities.
“Forty-two Hajj pilgrims who were travelling from Mecca to Medina were on a bus that caught fire. I spoke to Abu Mathen George, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, and he assured me that they are gathering information about the matter," Owaisi said.
He urged the Centre to facilitate the repatriation of bodies and ensure medical care for survivors.
“I request the Union Government, especially External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, to bring the bodies back to India and, if anyone is injured, ensure that they receive proper medical treatment."
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Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.
Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.
First Published:
November 17, 2025, 10:20 IST
News world 42 Indians Feared Dead As Bus Travelling From Mecca To Medina Collides With Tanker In Saudi Arabia
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