A festive evening turned into a nightmare at the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad on Saturday, when a “Tsunami” swing collapsed mid-ride. The incident, which occurred around 7 p.m. due to a suspected mechanical failure, left nearly a dozen people injured, with at least one person reported to be in serious condition. At the time of the crash, approximately 15 passengers were on board the ride, causing immediate panic among the thousands of visitors present at the fair.
The collapse was so sudden and violent that it triggered a near-stampede. Witness accounts describe a “loud thud” and a massive cloud of dust, leading many panicked bystanders to mistakenly believe a terror attack was underway. While some rescuers claimed that a Police Inspector from Palwal lost his life in the mishap, district authorities have yet to officially confirm any fatalities. Following the crash, the entire Mela ground was promptly evacuated to facilitate emergency services.
District Magistrate Ayush Sinha, along with senior police and tourism officials, reached the spot to lead the rescue operations and ensure the injured were shifted to nearby hospitals. This accident follows another mishap earlier that day where strong winds brought down a gate structure, injuring another visitor. A high-level probe has been ordered to investigate the mechanical failures of the ride, even as the international festival—featuring participants from over 50 nations—is scheduled to continue until February 15.
