On November 9th, a group of 54 individuals departed from Hyderabad to Jeddah for their pilgrimage to Medina, Saudi Arabia. As per reports, four members of the group traveled to Medina by car on November 16, confirming their safety. However, the remaining 46 pilgrims boarded a bus that was scheduled to stay in Medina until November 22. Tragically, this bus collided with an oil tanker approximately 25 kilometers from Medina around 1:30 AM IST, resulting in a catastrophic accident. Reports indicate that only one passenger, Mohammad Abdul Shoeb, survived the incident, while serious casualties were sustained by the others on board.
The ill-fated bus was carrying a diverse group of 18 men, 18 women, five girls, and five boys, all part of the same pilgrimage. The tragic event drew immediate reactions from various political leaders. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed condolences for the victims and urged the central government to collaborate with state authorities in supporting the families. He emphasized the need for relief measures during this difficult time and committed to monitoring the situation closely.
Telangana's Minority Affairs Minister, Mohammed Azharuddin, also extended his prayers to those affected and confirmed that the state government is taking immediate actions to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi Ambassador. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed his shock and directed state officials to gather information about the accident and establish contact with the Indian Embassy and consulate in Saudi Arabia.
Hyderabad Parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi echoed the sentiments of grief and emphasized the urgency of returning the deceased bodies to Hyderabad. He has been in communication with officials and travel agencies involved in arranging the pilgrimage to expedite the support needed for the families.
The Ministry of External Affairs in India has reaffirmed its commitment to fully assist the families impacted by this tragic event, with the embassies in Riyadh and Jeddah actively supporting those affected. The Telangana government has expressed its intention to facilitate all necessary support to the victims' families and ensure they receive the aid they need at this challenging time.
As investigations continue into both the accident and the identities of the deceased, officials stress the importance of prompt communication and coordination to provide relief effectively. The community remains united in mourning and extending solidarity to those who've suffered from this devastating loss.