A tragic accident disrupted the Surajkund International Crafts Fair in Faridabad, Haryana, after a high-speed “Tsunami” pendulum swing ride collapsed during operation on Friday evening. The incident occurred between 6:15 pm and 6:30 pm when the ride was running at full capacity with around 26 people on board.
Eyewitnesses said one side of the swing structure suddenly came loose mid-air, causing the ride to tilt violently before crashing to the ground. Panic spread across the fairgrounds as visitors rushed to escape the area.
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Police Inspector Dies During Rescue Effort
Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad, 59, lost his life while attempting to help trapped riders. He reportedly rushed towards the ride as it began tilting but was caught under the collapsing structure. The inspector sustained critical head and facial injuries and was declared dead during treatment.
Prasad, a Police Medal awardee, was scheduled to retire in March 2026. His death has cast a shadow over the ongoing fair, which attracts thousands of visitors daily.
Multiple Injuries Reported, Victims Hospitalised
Around 13 people were injured in the swing collapse, including two women police constables deployed at the venue. The injured were taken to Badshah Khan Civil Hospital, where doctors said most sustained fractures and soft-tissue injuries, while a few remain under observation.
Emergency response teams and fair staff assisted in evacuating passengers trapped beneath the damaged ride.
Government Announces Compensation, Probe Ordered
The Haryana government announced ₹1 crore compensation for Inspector Prasad’s family, along with full departmental benefits and a government job for one dependent. Chief Minister Nayab Saini expressed condolences and directed authorities to ensure proper treatment for the injured.
An FIR has been registered against the ride operator, and a probe committee led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner has been formed to investigate safety compliance and negligence.
Earlier Safety Incident Raises Questions
Notably, about an hour before the swing collapse, strong winds caused a gate near the food court area to fall, injuring two people, including a child. The back-to-back incidents have raised serious concerns over safety arrangements at the fair.
