What Happened in the Saudi Bus Accident Involving Telangana Passengers?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Emergency meeting held by Telangana officials.
- 42 Indian pilgrims tragically lost in the accident.
- A special helpline is established for affected families.
- Continuous coordination with MEA and Saudi authorities.
- A dedicated officer will be stationed at the MEA.
Hyderabad, Nov 17 (NationPress) In response to the tragic bus accident in Saudi Arabia involving Indian passengers traveling from Makkah to Madina, Telangana’s Resident Commissioner in New Delhi convened an urgent review meeting.
During the discussions at Telangana Bhavan, Resident Commissioner Dr. Shashank Goel assessed the preliminary information received through various official sources. He directed senior officials to promptly develop a comprehensive action plan and collect precise details about the victims and those injured.
Dr. Goel emphasized the importance of continuous communication with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, and Saudi governmental bodies.
He urged officials to work closely with senior personnel in Hyderabad and those responsible for NRI welfare. He highlighted the necessity to verify the exact number of individuals from Telangana involved in this incident, ensuring that all relief efforts are initiated without delay.
To expedite the information flow, the Resident Commissioner ordered that an officer from Telangana Bhavan be stationed full-time at the MEA office. This officer will be available 24/7 to gather details and coordinate all necessary actions concerning the accident.
Dr. Goel assured that Telangana Bhavan officials would be accessible at all times to provide updates regarding the incident. The meeting also included Dr. Gaurav Uppal, Secretary (Coordination), alongside other senior officials.
On a related note, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar expressed his profound sorrow over the loss of 42 Indian pilgrims in the Saudi bus accident, extending heartfelt condolences to their families.
He stated, “I have communicated with senior MEA officials and Home Ministry representatives to coordinate our ongoing efforts. Our teams from the Home Ministry and MEA remain in close contact with Saudi officials. The central government has established a special helpline to provide immediate assistance to affected families. We have set up a 24/7 control room with the following numbers: 8002440003 (toll-free), 0122614093, 0126614276, 0556122301,” he mentioned on X.
Bandi Sanjay further noted that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been in contact with the Saudi government, and Indian diplomats are providing urgent assistance. “We assure families that we will support them in every possible way. The injured will receive appropriate medical treatment, and we will ensure that no family feels neglected,” he added.