At least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad lost their lives after their bus collided with a diesel tanker near Mufrihat in Saudi Arabia while travelling from Mecca to Madinah. The tragic incident took place early Monday and has left families in deep grief.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that he was “deeply saddened” by the accident and conveyed his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. He also shared that the Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance, while praying for the quick recovery of the injured.

The Consulate General of India in Jeddah has set up a 24x7 control room to help affected families. The mission also shared a toll-free helpline number: 8002440003.

In an official statement, the Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah confirmed that they are in close touch with the Saudi Haj and Umrah Ministry, local authorities, and the concerned Umrah operators. They are also coordinating with the Telangana government to support the families of the victims.

The Consulate expressed condolences and said that a team of consulate staff and Indian community volunteers is stationed at hospitals and other locations to assist with all necessary arrangements.