A tragic bus–tanker collision near Madinah has left at least 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims feared dead, including women and children, as authorities work to confirm identities and assist families in India.
WEBDESK – November 17, 2025
A tragic pre-dawn crash turned a sacred pilgrimage into horror early Monday when a bus carrying Indian Umrah pilgrims from Makkah to Madinah collided with a diesel tanker, erupting into a massive fire that left at least 42 people feared dead, according to initial reports from ANI.
Authorities said many of the passengers were reportedly from Hyderabad, with 11 women and 10 children believed to be among the victims. Final identification is still underway due to the extent of the fire damage.
The crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. IST near Muhras (also referred to as Mufrihat), about 160 kilometers from Madinah. Most passengers were asleep when the collision happened, giving them little chance to escape as the flames engulfed the bus.
Rescue teams described the scene as “devastating,” noting that the bus was completely gutted. One person is believed to have survived, though their condition remains unclear.
Saudi Civil Defence, police teams, Indian Embassy officials and Umrah agency representatives quickly reached the site to assist with recovery, coordination and communication with families in India.
Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi confirmed he had spoken to Indian Embassy officials in Riyadh and said efforts are underway to verify the full list of victims.
In India, families of the pilgrims have been scrambling for information, calling travel agents and authorities as they await official confirmation.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed shock over the tragedy and directed state officials to gather complete details in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and the Saudi Embassy. A control room has been set up to assist families seeking information.
Control room numbers: +91 79979 59754, +91 99129 19545.
