A police inspector died and at least 13 people were injured on , when a ride collapsed at the annual Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad, Haryana, India. The incident, involving a ride described as a “tsunami swing,” occurred in the evening, triggering panic among fairgoers.
The deceased has been identified as Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who, according to reports, was attempting to assist people after the swing initially malfunctioned. Twelve visitors sustained injuries in the collapse, with the extent of their conditions varying. Footage circulating online shows the swing operating with a full capacity of riders before suddenly giving way and crashing to the ground.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini expressed his condolences, stating via X (formerly Twitter) that he was “deeply saddened by the accident” and offered his “heartfelt condolences to the family of the person who lost their life.”
The Surajkund Mela, a significant cultural event, draws large crowds and features crafts, music and amusement rides. The 39th edition of the fair was underway at the time of the incident. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse, with initial reports suggesting a possible mechanical fault. Police officials, including Faridabad CP Satender Kumar Gupta and DC Ayush Sinha, were present at the scene following the accident.
The collapse of the “tsunami swing” is the latest in a series of concerning incidents involving amusement park rides in India and the wider region. In August 2025, a high-rise swing at a fair near the Somnath temple in Bilimora, Gujarat, broke mid-air, injuring five people, including two children. That incident, also captured on video, prompted the immediate shutdown of other rides at the fair as a precautionary measure. A similar incident occurred in Saudi Arabia, where 23 people were injured when a 360-degree ride snapped mid-air at Green Mountain Park in Taif.
These incidents raise serious questions about safety standards and regulatory oversight within the Indian amusement park industry. While details regarding the specific safety protocols in place at the Surajkund Mela are still emerging, the recurring nature of these accidents underscores the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and more rigorous inspections of amusement park rides.
The Surajkund Mela, organized annually, is a showcase of Indian arts, crafts, and cultural traditions. It attracts both domestic and international tourists, and the incident is likely to cast a shadow over the remainder of the fair. The fair’s organizers have not yet released a statement regarding potential changes to safety procedures or the future of amusement rides at the event.
The incident also highlights the challenges of managing large crowds and ensuring public safety at such events. The presence of a police inspector attempting to assist after the initial malfunction suggests a rapid response, but ultimately proved insufficient to prevent further injuries and loss of life. The investigation will likely focus on whether adequate safety measures were in place, including regular maintenance checks, operator training, and emergency response protocols.
The collapse of the ride at Surajkund comes at a time of increased scrutiny of safety standards across various sectors in India. Recent reports have highlighted concerns about infrastructure safety, industrial accidents, and the need for improved regulatory frameworks. This latest incident is likely to fuel calls for greater accountability and more effective enforcement of safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Authorities have not yet released a full list of the injured or their conditions. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with amusement park rides and the critical importance of prioritizing safety above all else.
