Eighteen from one Hyderabad family tragically die in Madina crash.
One Hyderabad family lost 18 loved ones, including nine children, in the Saudi bus tragedy that killed 42 people.
Eighteen members of a single Hyderabad family — including nine young children — were among the 42 people who lost their lives in the horrific bus accident near Madina, Saudi Arabia. The tragedy has left an entire neighbourhood in shock and a lone survivor in the family grappling with unimaginable grief.
Mohammed Asif, a resident of Ramnagar, could barely hold back his tears as he described the moment his world fell apart. In a trembling voice, he shared that his father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, his wife, and all three of his children had perished in the deadly crash. The family had embarked on the sacred Umrah pilgrimage with hearts full of prayer and devotion, never imagining the journey would end in such devastating loss.
Asif, who now finds himself alone, recalled his last conversation with them. “They went for Umrah last Sunday. I spoke to them last night when they were on the way to Madina,” he said, his voice breaking as the memory resurfaced. Only hours later, the bus carrying the pilgrims collided with another vehicle, triggering a fiery explosion that left little chance for survival.
For Asif, every detail of the tragedy feels surreal. Just the night before, his children had excitedly spoken to him about their journey, unaware that fate would turn cruel so suddenly. “All three of my children… all gone,” he whispered, struggling to comprehend the enormity of his loss.
He has now appealed to the Telangana government for immediate assistance to travel to Saudi Arabia. His only wish is to perform the final rites for his loved ones and bring them home with dignity. Local leaders and community members have gathered around him, offering support, though no words can ease the pain he carries.
The tragedy has drawn nationwide attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling the incident heart-wrenching. He offered prayers for the injured and assured that Indian officials in Riyadh and Jeddah are coordinating closely with Saudi authorities to manage all formalities, including the repatriation of remains and medical support for survivors.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy also conveyed condolences, describing the loss as “deeply disturbing.” He instructed state officials to stay in constant contact with the Indian consulate to ensure families receive timely updates and support. “The government stands firmly with the bereaved families,” he said, praying for strength and courage for those devastated by the tragedy.
The state government has announced an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh for each family that lost a loved one. Officials said additional assistance would be provided if needed, especially for families like Asif’s, who have been completely shattered.
Back home in Hyderabad, the atmosphere in Ramnagar is heavy with grief. Neighbours who had seen the children grow up are unable to accept that all of them are gone. Relatives moving in and out of Asif’s home do so quietly, unable to find the right words. Tears, silence, and prayers fill the space where laughter once echoed.
For the families of all 42 victims, the Madina tragedy has brought unbearable sorrow. For Asif, who lost almost everyone he loved in a single moment, the pain is immeasurable. As authorities continue their coordination with Saudi officials, the only hope now is that the grieving families find the strength to endure what is perhaps the darkest chapter of their lives.