Surajkund Crafts Festival Proceeds Despite Tragic Joyride Collapse
The Faridabad District Administration and the Surajkund Fair Authority have officially confirmed that the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Festival will continue as originally scheduled. This announcement comes just one day after a devastating incident where a joyride collapsed at the Surajkund Mela, resulting in the tragic death of a police inspector and injuries to thirteen other individuals.
Amusement Ride Area Temporarily Closed for Safety Review
In response to the unfortunate event, officials have implemented immediate safety measures by temporarily closing the entire amusement ride section of the festival grounds. This precautionary closure will remain in effect until a comprehensive investigation is completed and all safety protocols have been thoroughly reviewed and verified.
"The 39th Surajkund International Crafts Festival will continue as scheduled on Sunday. In light of the recent unfortunate incident, the amusement ride area has been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure until further investigation is complete," stated an official spokesperson for the administration.
Detailed Safety Review Initiated Following Tragic Incident
The district administration has launched an extensive review of all safety norms and standards at the festival site. The incident is currently being examined by concerned authorities to determine the exact cause and identify any necessary improvements to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
"All other cultural, craft, food, and entertainment programmes within the festival grounds are completely safe and operating smoothly. The safety of tourists and the general public is the top priority of the administration and the Fair Authority," the official emphasized in their statement.
Police Inspector's Heroic Efforts and Tragic Outcome
The clarification from authorities follows the heartbreaking incident where a joyride collapsed during the Surajkund Mela, claiming the life of a police inspector while injuring thirteen others. The officer tragically lost his life while attempting to assist visitors after noticing the ride beginning to tilt dangerously.
Faridabad Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha provided detailed information about the incident, stating: "At about 6.15 pm, an unfortunate incident occurred here. A joyride collapsed at Surajkand. In this incident, around 13 people got injured. They have been rushed to the hospital in an ambulance. A Police Inspector was declared brought dead; he had tried to save people when the joyride began tilting. But a part of the joyride hit him in the face and head. Others are under treatment. Action will be taken against the joyride operator...an FIR will be registered, and an investigation will be done."
Legal Action and Government Response
Deputy Commissioner Sinha confirmed that a formal case will be registered against the ride operator, with a First Information Report (FIR) to be filed as part of the official investigation process. This legal action underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident.
Following the tragedy, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini expressed his profound condolences to the family of the deceased officer and issued directives to ensure immediate and appropriate medical care for all injured individuals.
Chief Minister's Statement and Government Commitment
In a post on his official social media account, Chief Minister Saini stated: "I am deeply saddened by the accident that occurred during the Surajkund Mela in Faridabad. I express my heartfelt condolences to the family of the person who lost his life in this incident. At the same time, necessary directions have been issued to the concerned authorities for the appropriate and immediate treatment of the injured individuals. The Haryana government is fully committed, with utmost promptness and sensitivity, to providing all possible assistance to the injured and their families."
The Surajkund International Crafts Festival, now in its 39th edition, remains one of India's premier cultural events, showcasing traditional crafts, cultural performances, and culinary delights from across the country and around the world. While the amusement ride section remains closed, all other festival activities continue to operate normally, with enhanced safety measures and monitoring in place throughout the event grounds.
