Fatal Swing Collapse at Surajkund Mela Claims Police Inspector’s Life, Injures 13
Police Inspector Dies Saving Lives as Tsunami Swing Collapses at India’s Premier Handicrafts Fair; 13 Injured in Double Structural Failure
FARIDABAD — A deadly double collapse of an amusement ride at the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela on Saturday evening resulted in the death of a police inspector and injuries to at least 13 people, casting a shadow over one of India’s premier cultural festivals.
The Incident
The incident occurred at approximately 6:15 PM when a large amusement swing, carrying 19 people, was in rapid motion and one of its main support chains suddenly snapped, leaving the entire structure dangling precariously 2-3 feet off the ground at one end. The ride, known as a “tsunami swing” or “giant swing,” is considered one of the most thrilling attractions at amusement parks, rotating riders through a 180-degree arc.
As police, security personnel, and shopkeepers rushed to the area and pulled out the injured from the ride, a second, catastrophic failure occurred. Several people had been taken off the swing and people nearby supported the fallen portion and helped in rescuing people when suddenly, the swing broke from the other end as well and fell completely to the ground.
According to eyewitness accounts, the swing had completed 13 rounds and was on its 14th rotation when the first support gave way. Video footage captured by fairgoers shows the ride operating at full speed moments before the structural failure, followed by screams of panic as the swing tilted and crashed.
The Hero Who Died Saving Others
Inspector Jagdish Prasad, the SHO of Chandhut police station in Palwal, died after suffering severe head injuries during rescue operations. The 58-year-old officer, originally from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, was serving as the security in-charge of the swing area when disaster struck.
Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who rushed to rescue those trapped when the ride began tilting, suffered critical injuries after being struck on the face and head by a part of the collapsing structure. He succumbed to his injuries during treatment at a private hospital.
Inspector Prasad had joined the Haryana Armed Police, a specialised and armed reserve wing of the state police, in 1989. After completing 36 years in the force, Prasad was due to retire in March. Inspector Prasad is survived by his wife, two daughters and a son, who are students and unmarried.
Haryana Director General of Police Ajay Singhal praised Inspector Prasad for his exceptional courage and dedication. He emphasized that despite facing extremely challenging and risky circumstances, the inspector prioritized the safety of others over his own life, showcasing the highest traditions of police service.
Casualties and Medical Response
A total of 13 people sustained injuries of varying severity in the accident. Faridabad Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha confirmed that nine injured persons were rushed to a private hospital, while four were admitted to BK Civil Hospital. Among the injured were both ride passengers and fair staff, including a stall operator who was struck by the swing’s metal grill during the rescue operations.
DGP Singhal visited the hospital to meet the injured individuals and held detailed discussions with doctors regarding their treatment progress. He assured victims that the state government and police department are committed to providing the best possible medical care.
Earlier Incident at the Fair
Just an hour before the swing accident, Gate Number 2 of the fairgrounds suddenly collapsed, injuring Sumit Malhotra, a resident of Sector 28, and a child. The injured were taken to BK Hospital for treatment. The decorative gate had reportedly been leaning prior to its collapse.
Official Response and Investigation
Senior district officials, including Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha, Commissioner of Police, and Managing Director of Tourism Parth Gupta, rushed to the scene immediately after the incident. The fairgrounds were evacuated, and the amusement ride area was cordoned off.
Tourism Minister Arvind Kumar Sharma visited the site late Saturday night and announced that a comprehensive investigation has been ordered. An FIR will be registered against the ride operator, and an ADC-headed committee has been formed to investigate the root cause of the collapse.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini expressed deep grief over the tragedy. In a post on social media platform X, he stated: “I am deeply saddened by the accident that occurred during the Surajkund Mela in Faridabad. I express my heartfelt condolences to the family of the person who lost his life in this incident. The Haryana government is working with utmost urgency and sensitivity to provide all possible assistance to the injured and their families.”
Compensation and Recognition
DGP Singhal announced that Inspector Prasad’s family would receive a policy amount of Rs 1 crore, along with other departmental benefits. He assured that the Haryana Police would provide all possible support to the family. The officer will be accorded martyrdom status, and one family member will be provided government employment.
About the Surajkund International Crafts Mela
The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela opened on January 31 with an inauguration by Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and is scheduled to continue until February 15. The annual event showcases the finest traditions of handicrafts, handlooms, culture, and cuisine from India’s 30 states and 46 participating countries. Approximately 1,150 artisans from across India are participating in this year’s fair.
The fair’s theme this year focuses on the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Following the twin tragedies, questions have been raised about safety protocols and inspection procedures for amusement rides and infrastructure at the popular cultural event. According to officials, daily certification checks for all rides had reportedly been conducted, including on the day of the accident, though the investigation will examine whether proper safety standards were maintained.
The fair continues to operate with heightened security and safety measures, though the amusement ride zone has been shut down pending the completion of the investigation.
