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Surajkund Mela joyride collapse kills police inspector, injures 12-19; ride operator and staff arrested
A tsunami swing ride collapsed at Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad, Haryana, killing Inspector Jagdish Prasad during rescue efforts and injuring 12-19 people. Two accused, including the ride operator, were arrested; all rides shut for inspection.
Why It Matters
The tragedy highlights ongoing safety lapses in amusement rides at Indian fairs, prompting arrests, inquiries, and compensation amid a major international event drawing thousands of visitors.
Timeline
10 Events
Mela continues with ride area shut
February 8, 2026
Surajkund Mela proceeds despite tragedy; ride zone closed.
Haryana CM announces Rs 1 crore aid
February 8, 2026
CM Nayab Singh Saini announces compensation, visits injured; four discharged from Supreme Hospital, others from BK Civil Hospital.
Two accused arrested
February 8, 2026
Haryana Police arrest ride operator Mohammad Shakir of Himachal Fun Care Company and Nitesh from Meerut for safety lapses.
FIR registered and inquiry committees formed
February 7, 2026
Culpable homicide case filed against Mohammad Shakir (ride company proprietor) and Nitesh; Additional Deputy Commissioner-led inquiry and three-member SIT constituted under DCP (Crime).
All rides shut down for safety inspection
February 7, 2026, evening
Fair management suspends all swings; other mela sections remain open.
Officials respond and area barricaded
February 7, 2026, soon 6:15 PM
Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha, Tourism MD Parth Gupta, and senior police arrive; area barricaded, injured shifted to hospitals.
Inspector Jagdish Prasad dies from injuries
February 7, 2026, evening
Inspector posted in Palwal, on mela duty, succumbs to head and face injuries sustained during rescue.
Tsunami joyride collapses at Surajkund Mela
February 7, 2026, 6:00:15 PM
Giant swing malfunctions and crashes, injuring 12-19 people including visitors and two women constables; Inspector Jagdish Prasad critically injured while rescuing during collapse.
Gate number 2 collapses due to strong winds
February 7, 2026, 5:00 PM
Gate near food court collapses, injuring two people including a child, an hour before main incident.
Surajkund International Crafts Mela begins
January 31, 2026
The 16-day Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Craft Fair starts in Faridabad.