Dozens Feared Dead in Highway Crash Between Mecca and Medina
Dozens of Indian Muslim pilgrims are reported to have died after a bus carrying worshippers between the holy cities of Mecca and Medina collided with a diesel tanker overnight on Monday. The vehicle, which Indian officials say was carrying 46 people, struck the tanker while travelling on the Mecca–Medina highway.
Indian media have not confirmed a final death toll. A senior official from Telangana said as many as 45 people may have perished; authorities described the figure as provisional while investigations continue. Police in Hyderabad reported that one passenger survived with injuries and has been identified as Mohammed Shoaib. Officials said most victims belonged to two families.
The Indian consulate in Jeddah said it had set up a control room and hotlines to assist families and coordinate consular support. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness on social media, offering condolences to the families and prayers for the injured. Local police said they were in contact with the travel agency that organised the pilgrims' trip.
"There were 46 people in the bus and one passenger survived with injuries," said Vishwanath Channappa Sajjanar, police chief of Hyderabad.
Transporting large numbers of worshippers between Saudi Arabia's holy sites has occasionally been hazardous, particularly during the annual Hajj when roads can become congested and traffic conditions difficult to manage. Millions more visit Saudi Arabia year‑round for the Umrah pilgrimage.
Past incidents underline the risks: in March 2023 a bus carrying pilgrims to Mecca burst into flames after a collision on a bridge, killing 20 people and injuring more than two dozen; in October 2019, a crash near Medina killed 35 people and injured four.
Pilgrimage travel is also an important element of Saudi Arabia's expanding tourism sector, part of the kingdom's strategy to diversify its economy. The Gulf state is home to more than two million Indian nationals who contribute significantly to its labour market and send substantial remittances to India. Saudi Arabia is also a major supplier of oil to India.
Authorities in Saudi Arabia and Indian consular officials are continuing their inquiries. Rescue teams, investigators and diplomatic staff remain engaged, and families of the victims are being notified and assisted.
Note: Casualty numbers remain unconfirmed and may be revised as authorities complete identification and notifications.
