Haryana Pioneers National Safety Policy for Fair and Adventure Rides
In a landmark move, Haryana is set to frame India's first-ever comprehensive policy to regulate fair and adventure rides, as announced by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday. This initiative follows a tragic incident at the Surajkund International Crafts Fair, where a giant 'Tsunami' swing collapsed, resulting in the death of a police officer and injuries to 12 others.
Response to Surajkund Fair Tragedy
The decision comes days after the February 7 accident at the annual fair in Faridabad, which claimed the life of Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who died while rescuing people. Describing the incident as "unfortunate," CM Saini emphasized the government's serious approach to preventing such recurrences. He made the announcement alongside Haryana Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana, and Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishan Kumar Bedi.
Two individuals, including the proprietor of Himachal Fun Care Company, which installed the swings, have been arrested in connection with the case. The government has also ordered a high-level probe and announced financial assistance, including Rs 1 lakh for the seriously injured and free treatment for all victims.
Key Features of the Proposed Policy
Under the new policy, officials outlined several mandatory measures to enhance safety standards:
- Daily Inspections: Rides and similar installations will undergo compulsory daily checks to ensure operational integrity.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The government will develop detailed SOPs for vendors and departments involved in setting up and operating amusement and adventure rides, focusing on safety, training, insurance, and accountability.
- Professional Supervision: All activities will be conducted under the guidance of trained professionals, with mandatory use of safety equipment.
- Adventure Sports Insurance: Ride operators will be required to provide specialized insurance for high-risk activities, offering financial protection against injury, disability, or death, as general policies often exclude such coverage.
- Participant Compliance: Clear terms and conditions, including safety rules, will be enforced. Depending on the activity, age, health, and physical fitness restrictions may apply, with high-risk rides requiring informed consent forms.
Addressing Current Regulatory Gaps
Currently, Haryana lacks a fixed protocol for adventure rides at fairs, with organizers setting their own safety guidelines and no mandatory pre-event inspections. Authorities often rely on vendors' past ratings or affidavits, and there is no requirement for specialized training for ride operators. The new policy aims to close these gaps by introducing standardized oversight and verification of operator qualifications.
Permissions for fairs in Haryana are typically granted by district administrations, such as Deputy Commissioners or District Magistrates, with local approvals from Sub-Divisional Magistrates or police. Cultural fairs involve the Tourism Department, while animal fairs fall under Animal Husbandry. Large events like the Surajkund Mela, which attracts lakhs of visitors annually, require joint approval from the Surajkund Mela Authority and Faridabad district administration.
Compensation and Honors
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Haryana DGP Ajay Singhal announced a compensation package for Inspector Prasad's family, including Rs 1 crore, a government job for a family member, and martyr status for the officer. This move underscores the state's commitment to supporting victims and ensuring accountability in public safety matters.
The formulation of this policy marks a significant step towards enhancing safety standards in amusement activities across Haryana, setting a precedent for other states in India to follow.
