Hyderabad Man Mohd Abdul Shoiab: The Lone Survivor of Saudi Bus Crash That Claimed 42 Indian Pilgrims' Lives

Mohd Abdul Shoiab, who has been hospitalized with an undisclosed condition, is the sole survivor of the tragic incident, according to sources.

In a devastating bus accident near Medina on Monday, 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims lost their lives, with only 24-year-old Mohd Abdul Shoiab surviving the crash. Sources indicate that Shoiab, a Hyderabad resident, was seated close to the driver when the fatal collision between the bus and a diesel tanker occurred.

The accident took place at approximately 1:30 am (IST) as the bus was traveling from Mecca to Medina with an estimated 46 passengers on board. In response to this tragedy, the Indian diplomatic mission in Jeddah has established a control room to provide assistance and coordination.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is currently visiting Russia, expressed profound shock regarding the accident. He stated, "Our embassy in Riyadh and consulate in Jeddah are giving fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident," and added, "Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured."

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy also conveyed his shock upon learning of the incident. His office reported that after receiving initial information about the accident involving pilgrims traveling between Mecca and Medina, including residents from Hyderabad, the Chief Minister directed the chief secretary and director general of police to gather complete details.

The Chief Minister's office further stated that Reddy has instructed officials to contact the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi Embassy regarding this incident and to promptly implement necessary relief measures.

According to an announcement on social media, "Chief Secretary K Ramakrishna Rao has promptly spoken with Coordination Secretary Gaurav Uppal in Delhi and issued the required directives."

Additionally, "A control room has been set up at the Secretariat to monitor details and relief measures regarding this incident on an ongoing basis, to provide information to the families and relatives."