In a heartbreaking incident at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad, Haryana, a senior police officer lost his life while trying to rescue fairgoers after an amusement ride collapsed on Saturday evening. The tragedy has prompted widespread grief and a formal inquiry into safety protocols at one of India’s most popular cultural events.
What Happened at the Mela
The incident unfolded around 6 pm on Saturday when a giant amusement ride known locally as the “tsunami swing” malfunctioned and collapsed while carrying visitors. Around 15 people were on the swing when it tilted and came crashing to the ground, leaving many injured.
In a separate but related mishap earlier that evening, a gate at the fairgrounds also collapsed, injuring two people, including a child.
Inspector Jagdish Prasad: A Life of Service
The deceased officer has been identified as Inspector Jagdish Prasad, posted with the Palwal Police and assigned to duty at the Surajkund fair. Prasad, 57, was a veteran of the force who joined the Haryana Armed Police in 1989 and had served for more than three decades.
Prasad displayed extraordinary courage during the chaos. As the swing began to collapse, he rushed forward to assist in evacuating those trapped and panicked on the ride. In the process, he sustained severe head and facial injuries. Despite being rushed to hospital, he later succumbed to his injuries.
Police Medal Awardee, Nearing Retirement
Inspector Prasad was not just any officer he was a recipient of the prestigious Police Medal, awarded by the Haryana governor for his exemplary service and dedication in 2019–20.
Adding to the poignancy of the loss, he was just weeks away from retirement, with his superannuation due on March 31, 2026, after completing 36 years of service.
Reaction and Assistance
Government officials and police leadership have expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Haryana Director General of Police Ajay Singhal and other senior officers praised Prasad’s bravery and commitment to duty, highlighting that his actions helped save several lives during the incident.
The state government has announced a ₹1 crore compensation package for Prasad’s family in recognition of his sacrifice, along with standard benefits extended to families of fallen officers.
He is survived by his wife, a son, and two daughters.
Injuries and Ongoing Investigations
At least 13 other people including visitors and two female police personnel were injured in the accident and are receiving medical treatment at local hospitals.
Authorities have ordered a thorough probe into the circumstances of the ride’s failure. Officials said that once investigations are complete, appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible for any negligence in maintenance or safety compliance at the fair.
Calls for Better Safety at Public Events
The tragedy has prompted renewed calls from public safety advocates and visitors for stricter regulatory oversight of amusement rides and infrastructure at large public events like the Surajkund Mela. Ensuring robust safety checks and maintenance protocols may help prevent such devastating incidents in the future.