Carnival Ride Malfunctions, Crashes To Ground From 80 Feet

KEY POINTS

Attendees have complained about the lack of safety measures at the fair
Injured people were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment
The police are investigating the cause of the accident

A giant ride with more than 15 people on it broke midair and crashed down from a height of 80 feet at a local carnival in India, the police said.

A video of the horrific incident, which occurred in the state of Punjab on Sunday, went viral on social media, showing the wheel of the ride spinning for a while before descending with speed. Many people on the ride were seen bouncing out of their chairs due to the unprecedented impact.

One of the holding cables of the ride snapped, and brought the giant spinning wheel down, Tribune India reported. The incident caused panic among the people attending the fair.

The video might be disturbing to some viewers.

At least 10 people, including women and children, suffered injuries, and were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Some victims sustained neck and head injuries, according to local media.

The police and local administration responded to the spot. However, no ambulance was available on the site. Many attendees also complained about the lack of safety measures at the fair.

There was negligence on the part of the fair management, the officials noted.

“We are investigating the matter and action will be taken soon,” senior officer Amit Talvar added.

According to a police official, the organizers of the fair had permission to conduct the event only till Sept. 4; however, a notice on site said the deadline of the fair was extended till Sept. 11.

The police have called the fair management to record their statements, including the owner of the ride, Mukesh Sharma.

“What we have come to know so far is that they had the permission to organize the show. However, no one would be spared if there is a mistake committed on their part. Strict action will be taken according to the law,” senior police officer Harsimran Singh Bal said.

An eyewitness said private bouncers were far away from the site of the incident.

“Who will take responsibility for the incident? How is this business running without the availability of any medical aid? The public is being stopped by the police. Nearly 50 persons would be injured. There were no safety measures taken. No big official reached the spot,” she said, as reported by Business Today.