42 Indian Umrah Pilgrims Killed in Horrific Bus Accident in Mecca

A tragic accident occurred on the route from Mecca to Medina when a passenger bus collided head-on with a diesel tanker, resulting in the death of 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims. Several others were injured in the incident.

According to initial reports, the deceased were residents of Telangana, a southern state of India. Among the victims were 20 women and 11 children. The injured have been admitted to local hospitals, while authorities are working to identify and hand over the bodies.

The accident took place at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time on Sunday near Mufrihat on the Mecca-Medina highway. Eyewitnesses stated that the bus had departed from Mecca for Medina shortly before the collision. Most passengers were reportedly asleep at the time, which contributed to the severity of the crash.

Saudi rescue teams arrived at the scene promptly to begin recovery operations. The bus was almost completely destroyed by fire, making identification of the victims extremely difficult. The Telangana government confirmed that it is coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to provide all necessary assistance to the victims and their families.