Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed the Ministry of External Affairs to dispatch a special team to Saudi Arabia to expedite coordination efforts following the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of 45 Indian pilgrims performing Umrah in Mecca on Monday.This was stated by Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy who expressed deep grief over the incident, noting that most of the deceased hailed from Telangana, with many belonging to his Secunderabad Parliamentary constituency. In a press statement, Mr. Reddy said one survivor is receiving medical treatment, with a team of Saudi medical experts providing necessary care. The Saudi authorities have begun identifying the bodies and issuing death certificates, and a high-level inquiry into the accident has been initiated.Mr. Reddy said he spoke to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who confirmed the Prime Minister’s instructions to send a special team. He also spoke to Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, who reported that 45 of the 46 pilgrims died when their bus, travelling from Mecca to Madinah, collided with an oil tanker.The Ministry of External Affairs is in continuous touch with all stakeholders and is working closely with Saudi authorities and the Telangana government to ensure the quick identification of bodies and facilitate last rites. In a separate statement, Rajya Sabha MP K. Laxman expressed shock over the tragedy and offered condolences to the bereaved families. He assured that the Centre is providing all necessary assistance.Published - November 17, 2025 08:25 pm IST