45 Dead in Mecca–Medina Bus Crash: Mohammed Azharuddin Rushes Telangana Aid Mission, Families to Be Flown to Riyadh

Introduction

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on the Mecca–Medina route in Saudi Arabia, where a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims crashed into a diesel tanker, killing 45 people — most of them from Hyderabad. The accident has sparked shock and grief across Telangana, leading the state government to send an emergency aid mission to Saudi Arabia.

How the Accident Happened

The pilgrims were returning from Mecca after performing Umrah and were on their way to Medina when the crash took place near the Mufrihat area. The collision caused a massive fire, trapping several passengers inside. Only one passenger survived the incident and is currently undergoing treatment.

Many of the victims were traveling in groups and families, making the tragedy even more painful for their communities back home.

Telangana’s Immediate Response

As soon as the news reached Hyderabad, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy ordered officials to get in touch with Indian authorities in Saudi Arabia. A special relief team is being sent, led by Telangana Minister for Minorities Welfare, Mohammed Azharuddin.

Two members from each victim’s family will be flown to Riyadh to help with the identification process and perform last rites, as several bodies were severely burnt and may require DNA testing.

Financial and Government Support

The Telangana government has announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for every affected family.
Emergency helplines have been activated to support relatives in Hyderabad and other districts, ensuring they receive clear and timely updates.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate in Jeddah are also coordinating closely with the state government and Saudi authorities.

Families in Deep Grief

Many families in Hyderabad have lost more than one member, with some losing their sole breadwinners. Several victims had saved for years to perform Umrah, making the tragedy even more painful for the families who were expecting a peaceful pilgrimage.

Local leaders and community members have been visiting homes of the victims, offering comfort and support as they await further information from Saudi Arabia.

Why This Accident Has Hit So Hard

• Most victims were from Telangana, mainly Hyderabad.
• Entire families were inside the bus.
• The sudden fire left most passengers with no chance to escape.
• Several bodies were charred beyond recognition, delaying identification.

Conclusion

The Mecca–Medina bus accident has left a deep mark on families in Telangana and the Indian community abroad. With Mohammed Azharuddin leading the relief mission and families being flown to Riyadh, the government is working to provide as much support as possible during this painful time.

As authorities coordinate to bring clarity and closure, the tragedy remains a sombre reminder of how quickly a spiritual journey can turn into a devastating loss.