In a devastating incident on Monday, at least 42 Indian pilgrims were killed when their bus reportedly collided with a diesel tanker near Medina, Saudi Arabia.
The bus, carrying 43 passengers—including women and children—was transporting pilgrims, all believed to be residents of Hyderabad, India, from Mecca to Medina after completing their Umrah. The collision occurred around 1:30 am IST in the Mufrihat area.
Tragically, only one survivor was admitted to the hospital. While Saudi authorities are yet to confirm the exact casualty count and cause, sleepiness of the driver is suspected.
The Telangana government, under Chief Minister Rewanth Reddy's direction, has contacted the Indian embassy in Riyadh and New Delhi to coordinate with Saudi authorities and gather information. Relief operations are currently underway.