The crash has also reignited discussions about the safety of pilgrim transport on the Mecca–Medina route, one of the busiest pilgrimage corridors in the world, prompting calls for stricter monitoring of tanker vehicles and improved emergency infrastructure
A devastating bus accident near Medina has left India in mourning, with 45 Umrah pilgrims losing their lives — including 18 members of a single extended family from Hyderabad. A delegation from the Telangana government, led by Minorities Minister Mohammed Azharuddin, has travelled to Saudi Arabia to assist with formalities, coordinate with grieving families, and support arrangements related to burial or documentation.
According to survivor Shaik Syed Abdul Rasheed, the large group belonged to the family of retired railway employee Shaik Naseeruddin. The family had gathered in Vidyanagar and travelled together to Mecca on November 9. Rasheed, who had initially feared that so many relatives travelling in one group might be risky, is now one of the few survivors. He recounted that Naseeruddin’s son Siraj, based in the United States, is the only surviving member of his immediate family, as his wife and two children were also among the deceased.
Officials listed Naseeruddin, his wife, their children, and ten grandchildren among the victims. Additionally, four members of the family of Mohammed Razzak died in the crash, according to Telangana MLA Mohammed Majid Hussain
The accident occurred when a fuel tanker rammed into the stationary bus carrying the pilgrims. The impact triggered a blaze that engulfed the vehicle and allowed almost no time for escape. Saudi authorities are still conducting their investigation, and the Indian Consulate is working closely with local officials to complete formalities.
The Telangana government has announced an ex-gratia amount of $5,641 (approximately ₹5 lakh) for each victim’s family. A delegation including government advisor Mohammed Ali Shabbir is helping ensure smooth procedures, including sending two relatives of each victim to Saudi Arabia.
Shabbir stated that the purpose of the delegation is not only administrative but also emotional — to work alongside families facing unimaginable loss. Support is being extended to determine whether burials will take place locally, as per Saudi regulations, or if families wish to pursue repatriation through available legal routes.
The tragedy has resonated deeply in Hyderabad, where entire neighbourhoods are grieving multiple losses within the same extended family. Community members and leaders have rallied to provide help, counselling, and logistical support.
