Jeddah: In the wake of the horrific bus accident near Madina that claimed the lives of more than 45 Indian Umrah pilgrims from Telangana, senior Telangana ministers held an emergency meeting with the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Jeddah on Tuesday to intensify rescue, coordination, and support efforts for the affected families.
The meeting, held early in the morning, was attended by Telangana Minority Welfare Minister Mohammed Azharuddin, Minority Welfare Secretary B. Shafiullah (IFS) and Nampally MLA Majid Hussain, along with Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri. The officials reviewed the latest status of the victims, medical updates, documentation processes and support systems required for families back home.
Camp Office Set Up in Madinah
The Indian Consulate has established a 24×7 camp office in Madinah to facilitate communication with Saudi authorities, assist in identification procedures and support family members arriving from India. A dedicated control room has also been activated to respond to urgent queries.
One Survivor Identification Underway
Officials confirmed that only one pilgrim survived the crash and is currently hospitalized in Madinah. A team from the Indian Consulate has visited the survivor and is monitoring his medical treatment.
Most victims suffered severe burns, making identification a challenging and time consuming process, officials said.
Telangana Government Steps Up Support
The Telangana government has taken the following measures:
- ₹5 lakh ex gratia announced for each deceased pilgrim’s family.
- According to the Haj Committee of India’s guidelines, Saudi authorities can pay compensation for road traffic accident (RTA) deaths “in accordance with Sharia law” via its court system.
- State coordination cell and helpline activated for families.
- Arrangements underway to send two family members from each bereaved household to Saudi Arabia to perform last rites or complete repatriation formalities.
- A team led by Minister Mohammed Azharuddin has travelled to Saudi Arabia to work directly with Indian and Saudi authorities and ensure smooth coordination.
- The Telangana government has said the last rites will be performed in Saudi Arabia, not in India.
Pilgrims Mostly From Telangana
The majority of the victims were residents of Hyderabad and surrounding districts. Officials are working closely with travel operators and community groups to compile complete lists and assist families with documentation.
Consulate and Saudi Authorities in Constant Coordination
Saudi police and civil defense teams are cooperating fully with Indian authorities. The consulate has deployed additional staff to expedite post mortem reports, death certificates and other legal requirements necessary for handing over the bodies.
Helplines Active
Families of the victims can contact the Indian Consulate’s emergency helpline and the Telangana government’s dedicated control room for verified updates.
