Overview
- Local reports say the coach struck a diesel tanker near Mufrihat on the Badr–Medina route while traveling from Mecca around 1:30 am IST, triggering a fire.
- Initial counts indicate 43 passengers were on board, with 42 feared dead and one survivor under treatment as formal confirmation of identities remains pending.
- Many passengers are believed to be from Hyderabad, with preliminary lists indicating women and children among the victims.
- Telangana set up a state control room and directed senior officials to work with the Ministry of External Affairs and Saudi authorities; family helplines: +91 79979 59754 and +91 99129 19545.
- The Consulate General of India in Jeddah launched a 24x7 helpline at 8002440003, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted consular support and offered condolences.