A tragic accident in Saudi Arabia left at least 20 people dead and around 29 injured. According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred when a bus carrying pilgrims to the holy city of Mecca crashed and subsequently caught fire. The event occurred in the first week of the fasting month of Ramadan, a time when many Muslims take the opportunity to visit Mecca months before the massive hajj pilgrimage.
The Arab kingdom’s state-run Al Ekhbariya television reported that the victims were of “different nationalities,” although no further details were provided. Transporting pilgrims on Saudi Arabian roads can be dangerous, especially during the hajj, when endless traffic jams occur.
This is not the first tragic accident in Saudi Arabia involving pilgrims. In October 2019, 35 foreigners were killed in a collision between a bus and a heavy vehicle near the city of Medina. These types of tragic accidents have led many to question the safety of transporting pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi authorities have promised in the past to take measures to improve road safety during the hajj and at other times when there are large numbers of visitors. However, some have criticized the lack of effective measures and the lack of monitoring and regulation to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
This tragic event has mourned many families who were expecting to perform the pilgrimage and has left others praying for the recovery of the injured. The Muslim community around the world joins in solidarity and support at this difficult time.