In a devastating road accident, at least 45 Indian pilgrims performing Umrah were killed when their bus collided with a diesel tanker on the Makkah-Madinah highway near the Mufriehat area in Saudi Arabia. The bus burst into flames upon impact, leaving only one survivor in critical condition.

Most victims hailed from Hyderabad in Telangana state, with the group of 54 travelers having arrived in Jeddah on November 9 for the pilgrimage. Forty-six were aboard the ill-fated bus heading to Madinah after completing Umrah rituals in Makkah, while a few others traveled separately.

The most heartbreaking aspect is that 18 victims — including nine children — belonged to a single extended family from Hyderabad, effectively wiping out three generations in an instant.

Saudi authorities, along with Indian consular teams from Riyadh and Jeddah, are coordinating rescue efforts, body identification, and repatriation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, stating that Indian officials are providing all possible assistance. The Telangana government has announced ex-gratia payments and set up support for affected families.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety on busy pilgrimage routes in Saudi Arabia. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un — may the departed souls rest in peace.