Argus News - Umrah Journey Ends in Tragedy near Medina as Inferno Claims 42 Indian Pilgrims

Bhubaneswar, Nov 17: A devotional trip to Medina, Saudi Arabia, turns fatal for Indian pilgrims as a devastating accident has reportedly claimed the lives of 42 pilgrims, the Indian mission in Jeddah confirmed.

The Indian pilgrims were on their way to perform Umrah. The tragedy unfolded when the bus carrying the pilgrims collided with a diesel tanker, triggering a massive fire that engulfed the vehicle within minutes.

The incident occurred around 1.30 am IST at a location identified as Mufrihat. Initial reports from Saudi Arabia suggest that around 20 women and 11 children were in the bus at the time of the tragedy.

Following the accident, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has established a round-the-clock control room and issued helpline numbers to provide assistance to those in need. "In view of a tragic bus accident near Madina, Saudi Arabia, involving Indian Umrah pilgrims, a 24x7 Control Room has been set up in Consulate General of India, Jeddah," the Consulate posted on X.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar also expressed deep concern, saying: "Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medinah, Saudi Arabia. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured."

According to preliminary reports, most of the deceased were from Hyderabad, with several others hailing from different parts of India. The intensity of the blaze left little chance for escape, and authorities confirmed that the majority of passengers were burned beyond recognition.

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Some reports indicate that the bus was en route from Mecca to Medina, carrying pilgrims who had completed their rituals in Mecca. At the time of the collision, all passengers were said to be asleep.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as flames spread rapidly, trapping those inside. Emergency responders rushed to the site, but the scale of the fire made rescue efforts extremely difficult.

More details are awaited as Saudi authorities have reportedly launched an investigation into the incident. Reports suggest that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh is working closely with local officials to identify victims and arrange for the repatriation of bodies.

Back home, news of the tragedy has sent shockwaves across communities, particularly in Hyderabad, where families are mourning the sudden loss of loved ones.

As condolences pour in from across India and abroad, the Medina tragedy stands as a grim reminder of the risks faced by pilgrims on spiritual journeys.