Madina Bus Tragedy: High-Level Indian Delegation To Visit Saudi Arabia Tomorrow, Says MEA

The ministry of external affairs has announced the immediate dispatch of a high-level delegation after the tragic bus accident near Saudi Arabia’s holy city of Madina, which resulted in the deaths of several Indian Umrah pilgrims, primarily from Telangana.

The bus accident took place early on Monday (November 17), involving Indian nationals, most of whom appeared to be Indians. More than 40 Indians were travelling on the bus, which was reportedly on its way from Mecca to Madina when it collided with an oil tanker around 1.30 am (IST).

According to the ministry of external affairs (MEA), a high-level delegation will visit Saudi Arabia on Wednesday (November 19) to provide assistance and oversee relief measures. This visit is intended to ensure

the “fullest assistance” and coordinate efforts with Saudi authorities, including the ministry of Haj and Umrah.

The delegation, which will be led by Andhra Pradesh governor Justice S Abdul Nazeer, is also expected to take part in the last rites of the deceased. He will be accompanied by Arun Kumar Chatterjee, secretary (consular, passport, and visa division and overseas Indian affairs) of the MEA.

The Centre expressed its profound sorrow at the tragic accident, stating: “We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

Relief operations are underway and the Indian mission in Jeddah rushed officials to the site of the accident to assess the situation. The Embassy of India, Riyadh and the Consulate General of India, Jeddah, said they are working closely with the local authorities to expedite the identification of mortal remains.

The Centre is facilitating the travel of the families of the deceased to Saudi Arabia. The MEA reiterated that the government remains “fully committed to supporting Indian nationals affected by this tragedy and is working to ensure swift and effective assistance”.

(With PTI inputs)