From the Liveblog of
Monday, November 17, 2025
Dozens feared killed as bus with pilgrims crashes near Muslim holy city of Medina in Saudi Arabia
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleThe Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia says a “tragic” bus crash involving Muslim pilgrims occurred near the holy city of Medina overnight, with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi offering his condolences.
“Deeply saddened by the accident in Medina involving Indian nationals. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones,” the prime minister writes on X.
“I pray for the swift recovery of all those injured. Our Embassy in Riyadh and consulate in Jeddah are providing all possible assistance,” he adds.
Indian media report dozens had potentially been killed in the incident, though officials have yet to provide a toll.
Transporting worshippers around Saudi Arabia’s holy sites has frequently proven dangerous, particularly during the hajj, when roads can be chaotic with buses creating interminable traffic jams.
Millions also visit Saudi Arabia for the umrah pilgrimage, which happens outside of the hajj period.
#BREAKING Heart-wrenching scene on Mecca-Medina Highway near Jeddah bus with 42 Indian Umrah pilgrims collides with tanker bridge in flames! Video reveals the tragedy with many from Hyderabad among the victims.
#SaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/bvZETWHfjh— Er Shaikh Saddam (@ShaikhS63927710) November 17, 2025
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