Madinah crash leaves 42 Hyderabad Umrah pilgrims feared dead.
The pilgrims’ bus traveling from Makkah to Madinah tragically crashed into a diesel tanker, causing a devastating and deadly accident.
Hyderabad: A heartbreaking tragedy has struck families across Hyderabad as at least 42 Umrah pilgrims are feared dead after a devastating road accident near Madinah in Saudi Arabia. The early-morning incident has sent shockwaves through the community, especially among the families of those who had sent their loved ones on what was meant to be a deeply spiritual and peaceful journey.
According to preliminary reports, the pilgrims were travelling in a private bus from Makkah to the holy city of Madinah after completing their Umrah rituals. Their journey, however, took a tragic turn when the bus collided with a diesel tanker. The impact was severe, and the collision reportedly triggered a massive fire, making rescue efforts extremely difficult. Local authorities and emergency teams rushed to the spot, but the intensity of the flames left little room for survival.
Among the pilgrims were several women and children, all residents of Hyderabad, who had spent the previous days in Makkah offering prayers and performing their religious duties. Families back home were eagerly waiting for updates on their safe arrival in Madinah when news of the tragic accident began to filter through social media and community networks. What was supposed to be a sacred journey filled with blessings has now turned into an unimaginable loss for dozens of families.
In response to the incident, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah has activated a 24×7 emergency control room to assist affected families. Officials are coordinating with Saudi authorities, hospitals, and local transport services to gather accurate information on the victims and survivors. The Consulate has urged families to reach out for verified updates and support. The helpline numbers made available for assistance include 8002440003 (Toll-free), 0122614093, 0126614276, and 0556122301 (WhatsApp).
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow and concern upon learning about the tragedy. He immediately instructed the chief secretary and director general of police to gather all necessary details and maintain constant communication with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. The chief minister emphasized the importance of providing accurate and timely information to families who are anxiously awaiting updates.
Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari alerted Gaurav Uppal, the Resident Commissioner in Delhi, to coordinate with central authorities and obtain detailed information regarding the pilgrims, particularly those from various districts of Telangana. Officials at Telangana Bhavan, New Delhi, are now working round the clock to liaise with Saudi authorities and Indian embassy officials to piece together a complete picture of the incident.
Senior officials at Telangana Bhavan are in direct and continuous contact with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, ensuring that every possible step is taken to identify the victims and support their families. The process is expected to take time due to the nature of the accident, but authorities have assured that full cooperation is being extended by both governments.
Telangana minister Azharuddin also expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling it an unimaginable loss for the families. He assured complete support from the state government and stated that all necessary assistance—both emotional and logistical—will be extended to the affected families during this extremely difficult time. “No family should have to wait helplessly for information. We are doing everything we can,” he stated.
To support relatives who may need to travel, coordinate, or seek documents, Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi has also activated dedicated contact numbers. Families can reach out to +91 98719 99044 (Vandhana, PS to Resident Commissioner & Liaison Head), +91 99583 22143 (Ch. Chakravarthi, Public Relations Officer), and +91 96437 23157 (Rakshith Naik, Liaison Officer) for updates and assistance. Officials have confirmed that they are maintaining constant contact with embassy teams in Riyadh to streamline the flow of information.
Back in Hyderabad, grief has engulfed entire neighborhoods as families gather, many still in disbelief at the unfolding tragedy. Community members, religious leaders, and local representatives have begun visiting the homes of those believed to be on the ill-fated bus, offering prayers, comfort, and support. For many families, the Umrah journey was a cherished dream—one that they had prepared for months, even years, saving money and making plans. The sudden loss has left them grappling with shock and profound sorrow.
As authorities continue verification and relief efforts, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can strike even during the most sacred journeys. The coming days will be crucial in confirming identities, supporting families, and coordinating possible repatriation efforts.
For now, Hyderabad waits with a heavy heart—hoping for miracles, preparing for the worst, and mourning a tragedy that has left an indelible mark on the community.