A tragic accident in Saudi Arabia has claimed the lives of five Pakistani Umrah pilgrims, with several others left injured. The incident occurred on April 20, 2025, when the bus carrying the pilgrims collided with a trailer on the route between the historical site of Badr and Madinah.
The five deceased have been identified as Rukhsana Bibi and Amina Bibi, both from Fort Abbas, two women from Dahran Wala, and an elderly man, Manzoor Hussain from 39/3-R, all residents of the Bahawalnagar district in Punjab, Pakistan. According to reports, the bus was transporting a group of Pakistani pilgrims who were returning from the significant religious site when the crash occurred.
The collision resulted in the unfortunate deaths and left multiple passengers injured. Those injured were rushed to local hospitals in Madinah for medical attention. Four of the injured, including two women, were admitted to the Saudi-German Hospital, while others, including three individuals (two women), were taken to King Fahd Hospital for treatment. Hospital sources report that the injuries are serious, and the affected pilgrims are receiving urgent care.
The incident has sent shockwaves through both the Pakistani and Saudi communities. In Pakistan, the tragic news has prompted a wave of condolences. Humayun Khan, the Secretary General of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), expressed sorrow, calling the loss “extremely regrettable.” Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, the Speaker of the National Assembly, also conveyed heartfelt condolences and instructed Pakistani embassy officials in Saudi Arabia to extend full support to the families of the deceased and to assist in the treatment of the injured.
The Pakistani embassy in Saudi Arabia has confirmed that they are in close contact with local authorities to ensure the smooth repatriation of the deceased and to assist the injured pilgrims. The embassy has promised to provide all necessary support to the affected families.
This heartbreaking accident brings to light the need for stringent safety protocols for pilgrims, particularly those traveling by bus between sacred sites. Authorities in Saudi Arabia are expected to launch a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash and to take necessary actions to prevent such incidents in the future.
The tragedy has deeply affected the families of the deceased and the Pakistani public, with many calling for better safety measures to protect pilgrims embarking on religious journeys.
