Surajkund swing tragedy: Police inspector dies, 12 injured
Surajkund swing tragedy: Police inspector dies, 12 injured
A high-speed pendulum ride collapses at Surajkund fair, killing a police inspector and injuring 12 others, with an earlier gate collapse adding to the chaos at Faridabad.
A high-speed pendulum swing ride collapsed at the 39th Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Festival in Faridabad on Saturday evening, turning a festive night into tragedy. About 26 people were on the ride when one end suddenly broke, and the ride lurched and then slammed down, leaving it hanging a couple of feet above the ground. Rescuers rushed to pull riders to safety as several people became trapped beneath debris and metal.
One life was lost in the chaos: Inspector Jagdish Prasad, 59, who was deployed on fair duty as the security in-charge of the swing complex. He died after sustaining severe injuries while attempting to help others. Twelve others were injured, including two women constables. Among the injured was Sumit Malhotra, a resident of Sector 28, and a child who were taken to BK Hospital for treatment.
The incident followed an earlier mishap at the fairgrounds when Gate number 2 reportedly collapsed, injuring a visitor. Authorities said the two incidents disrupted the evening’s events and prompted an emergency response from police and event organizers. Prasad, a native of Mathura who was due to retire in March, was praised for bravery as colleagues recalled his efforts to calm and guide people during the rescue.
Officials have ordered a formal investigation into the accident and said safety protocols would be reviewed to determine how a ride with dozens of riders could fail in such a manner. The Surajkund Mela, normally a vibrant celebration of crafts and culture, faced a somber night as the community processed the loss and injuries sustained at the festive site.
