What Happened to Indian Pilgrims in the Recent Bus Accident in Saudi Arabia?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 45 Indian pilgrims lost their lives in a bus accident in Saudi Arabia.
- The accident occurred near Medina when the bus collided with an oil tanker.
- A diverse group of victims included men, women, and children.
- The Indian government is providing support and assistance to the affected families.
- Prominent leaders have expressed their condolences and support.
Riyadh, Nov 22 (NationPress) The final rites for the Indian pilgrims who tragically lost their lives in a bus accident in Saudi Arabia were conducted on Saturday in the holy city of Medina.
A total of 45 Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad perished when their bus caught fire after colliding with an oil tanker early on Monday morning, close to Medina.
The deceased included 17 men, 18 women, and 10 children, with many pilgrims hailing from areas such as Asif Nagar, Jhirra, Mehdipatnam, and Toli Chowki in Hyderabad.
As reported by the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, S. Abdul Nazeer, attended the funeral prayers at the Prophet's Mosque and the burial of the deceased at the revered cemetery of Jannat ul Baqi in Medina.
Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Khan, along with the Indian Consul General in Jeddah, Fahad Suri, also showed their support by joining the families and friends during the last rites.
The Indian Embassy reiterated its heartfelt condolences regarding this devastating incident.
Earlier, the Indian Consulate General in Jeddah established a camp office at the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office in Medina to provide assistance to the families of the Umrah pilgrims who tragically lost their lives in the bus accident.
This week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sadness over the loss of lives in the bus accident involving Indian Umrah pilgrims and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured.
In a post on X, PM Modi stated, "Deeply saddened by the accident in Medinah involving Indian nationals. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured."
He also added, "Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with Saudi Arabian authorities."
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar also conveyed his deep concern, stating, "Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medinah, Saudi Arabia. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured."