Madina Bus Tragedy: Indian High-Level Delegation Led by Andhra Governor to Coordinate Relief Efforts in Saudi Arabia

Out of the 46 passengers, 45 died at the scene in the tragic bus accident near Saudi's Madina.

New Delhi:

A high-level delegation headed by Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer will travel to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday to "oversee relief measures" following the devastating accident involving Indian pilgrims near Madina on November 17, according to an official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs.

The statement conveyed the Indian government's "profound sorrow" regarding the tragic incident. "We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured."

"To provide complete assistance and coordinate relief efforts with Saudi authorities, including the Ministry of Haj and Umrah, a high-level delegation from the Government of India led by Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice S Abdul Nazeer will visit Saudi Arabia tomorrow," the statement explained.

Secretary (CPV & OIA) from the Ministry of External Affairs, Arun Kumar Chatterjee, will accompany the Governor. The delegation is also expected to participate in the last rites ceremonies for the deceased.

The statement further noted, "The Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah are working closely with local authorities to expedite the identification of mortal remains. The Government of India is facilitating travel arrangements for families of the deceased to Saudi Arabia. The Government remains fully committed to supporting affected Indian nationals and ensuring swift, effective assistance."

The pilgrims were traveling from Makkah to Madina when their bus collided with an oil tanker approximately 25 km before reaching Medina, resulting in an explosion that engulfed the vehicle within minutes.

A group of 54 pilgrims from Hyderabad had departed for Jeddah on November 9 for an Umrah tour scheduled from November 9 to 23.

Among them, four individuals traveled to Madina separately by car, while another four remained in Makkah due to personal reasons.

The remaining 46 pilgrims boarded the bus involved in the fatal accident. Tragically, 45 passengers perished at the scene after the bus was completely consumed by fire. Only one individual, Md Abdul Shoaib, survived the devastating incident.