‘Deeply saddened’: PM Modi condoles Medina tragedy; assures full support and coordination with Saudi authorities

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accident in Medinah, Saudi Arabia in which more than 40 Indian Umrah pilgrims are feared dead. In a post on X, he wrote: "Deeply saddened by the accident in Medinah involving Indian nationals.

My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured.

Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance. Our officials are also in close contact with Saudi Arabian authorities."

According to initial reports, the crash took place early Monday when a passenger bus travelling from Mecca to Medina collided with a diesel tanker. The pilgrims had completed their rituals in Mecca and were heading to Medina when the collision occurred around 1.30 am IST. Many of the victims are believed to be from Hyderabad. Local sources said more than 40 people died on the spot, while the Telangana Haj Committee stated that 42 pilgrims had lost their lives. The victims reportedly include women and children, and most passengers were asleep at the time of the crash.

Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy said he was shocked to hear about the tragedy and instructed officials to urgently collect detailed information, including the number of passengers from Telangana. The state government has set up a control room to assist affected families, while authorities remain in contact with the Ministry of External Affairs and Saudi officials.The Indian Consulate in Jeddah has activated a 24x7 helpline to support families seeking information. Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi said he contacted travel agencies and MEA officials and shared passenger details with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. External affairs minister S Jaishankar also expressed grief. In a post on X he wrote: "Deeply shocked at the accident involving Indian nationals in Medinah, Saudi Arabia. Our Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate in Jeddah are giving fullest support to Indian nationals and families affected by this accident. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of those injured."