Nine Indian nationals killed, 11 injured in Saudi road accident; Consulate provides support

A tragic road accident occurred near Jizan, in the western region of Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of nine Indian nationals. The collision took place at approximately 6 a.m. in the Wadi bin Hashbal region of Asir province, which lies south of Mecca. A bus carrying 26 migrant workers from various countries, including India, collided with a trailer while en route to a worksite in Jizan. The crash claimed the lives of 15 individuals, including nine Indians, three Nepali nationals, and three Ghanaians. Eleven others sustained injuries and have been hospitalized.

The Indian Consulate in Jeddah confirmed the deaths and expressed its condolences, offering full support to the affected families. In a statement, the consulate confirmed its communication with both local authorities and the families of the deceased. The consulate is actively involved in assisting with the repatriation of the bodies and providing the necessary support for the injured workers. The authorities have confirmed that the victims were employed as migrant laborers in Saudi Arabia.

Among the deceased, one worker, Kapeli Ramesh, 32, was identified as a resident of Metpali Mandal in Jagtial district, Telangana. The names of the other deceased individuals have not yet been disclosed. The injured workers, including two from Telangana, are receiving treatment at hospitals in Jizan. The injuries sustained by the workers vary, but none of the reports indicate life-threatening conditions for the survivors.

The Indian Consulate has set up a dedicated helpline to assist the families of the victims and address inquiries regarding the accident. The provided helpline numbers are 8002440003 (toll-free), 0122614093, 0126614276, and 0556122301 (WhatsApp). The consulate emphasized that it is working closely with the relevant Saudi authorities to ensure proper assistance is provided to the victims and their families.

Saudi authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash, with no official details released yet. The collision occurred on a major highway, and the bus was reportedly transporting workers to their worksite when it collided with a trailer. The investigation will determine whether factors such as road conditions, driver error, or mechanical failure contributed to the accident.