Pilgrims From Madina Crash to Be Buried in Al-Baqi
Key Takeaways
- Telangana government offering Rs 5 lakh compensation to families
- 45 Indian pilgrims, including 42 from Telangana, killed in bus crash
- Bodies to be buried in al Baqi cemetery after identification process
MADINA — The 45 Indian Umrah pilgrims killed in Monday’s devastating bus accident near Medina will be buried in Al Baqi, Islam’s oldest cemetery in the holy city, following completion of formal identification procedures.
Authorities continue DNA testing and other forensic methods to identify the severely burned victims.
The crash occurred in the early morning hours when a bus carrying pilgrims from Makkah to Madina collided with a fuel tanker near Mufrihat, triggering a fire that completely engulfed the vehicle.
The intense flames have complicated identification efforts, with local authorities relying on advanced forensic techniques to establish victims’ identities.
Meanwhile, the Telangana state government announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh (approximately $6,000) for each victim’s family from the state. The sole survivor of the accident continues receiving medical treatment, though his condition remains undisclosed.
Indian diplomatic officials in Saudi Arabia are coordinating with local authorities to expedite identification and burial procedures while providing support to grieving families.
