Mecca Medina accident LIVE Updates: 42 Indians dead in bus accident in Madina

Mecca Medina accident LIVE Updates: Consulate staff, Indian community volunteers on ground at various hospitals and sites

The Indian consulate in Madina said it and the Indian embassy are in touch with the Saudi Haj and Umrah ministry, and other local authorities. "They are also in touch with the concerned Umrah operators. A team of Consulate staff and Indian community volunteers is on the ground at various hospitals and sites," it said in a press statement.

Mecca Medina accident LIVE Updates: Oil tanker collided with the bus, resulting in an explosion

The bus had stopped on the side of a road, and during this stoppage, an oil tanker collided with the bus, resulting in an explosion, they said. Saudi Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances that led to the accident.

Mecca Medina accident LIVE Updates: Bus was on its way from Mecca to Medina

The bus was learnt to be on its way from Mecca to Madina. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other leaders conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased.

Mecca Medina accident LIVE Updates: Accident took place around 40 km from Medina 

"The families of the deceased will have an option after mortal remains have been identified for repatriation to India or a local burial at Jannatul Baqi (cemetery in Madinah) as per local customs," one of the people said. The accident took place nearly 40 km from Madina at around 11 pm local time (1:30 am, IST), the people said.