Police Officer Killed, 12 Injured in Fairground Ride Collapse in India

A tragic accident in India’s Haryana state has left a police inspector dead and at least 12 people injured after a large amusement ride collapsed during a public festival, raising renewed concerns over safety standards at mass entertainment events.

The incident occurred at the Surajkund fair when a giant ride known as Tsunami was operating with around 26 passengers on board. The structure suddenly tilted and crashed to the ground, trapping several riders beneath the metal framework, according to the Hindustan Times.

Police Inspector Jagdish Prasad, 58, was killed while attempting to rescue those trapped under the collapsed ride. He suffered critical injuries during the rescue effort and later died from his wounds. Authorities said his body was released to his family following a post-mortem examination.

Officials confirmed that all injured victims are receiving treatment at two hospitals and that their conditions are stable.

The collapse marked the second serious incident during the current edition of the festival, after a decorative gate at one of the entrances previously fell. Despite the incidents, local authorities said the festival would continue, while the amusement ride area has been temporarily closed pending the outcome of investigations.

Police have arrested two suspects, including the owner of the company operating the ride and a worker employed under his supervision. Investigators are also examining the potential involvement of other individuals.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini ordered strict enforcement of safety regulations at the festival and other public events, describing the incident as deeply distressing and confirming the launch of a formal investigation into the causes of the collapse.

The state government announced financial assistance of 100,000 rupees for each seriously injured victim. Separately, Haryana’s director general of police said the family of the deceased officer would receive compensation of 10 million rupees, along with a government job for one family member.

Authorities said the rides at the Surajkund festival had been subject to daily inspections, and a detailed report is being prepared to determine accountability and impose strict penalties on those responsible.