Extra entry gates opened; heavy crowds return: Surajkund mela sees massive influx despite tragedy

The Surajkund International Self-Reliant Crafts Mela in Faridabad drew an unexpectedly large crowd on Sunday, a day after a fatal accident and other incidents at the fairground. Officials said attendance surged sharply as visitors returned despite safety concerns and ongoing investigations.

The mela reopened on Sunday following Saturday’s tumultuous incidents, including the death of a police officer. Initially, attendance was sparse, with only a few visitors visible across the venue.

However, as news spread that the fair remained open, footfall increased rapidly. By around 2 pm, the grounds were heavily crowded, with officials reporting little standing space due to the influx.

Fair authorities said about 50,000 people attended on Saturday. In contrast, more than 2,25,000 visitors had been recorded by Sunday. To manage the rush, extra entry gates were opened.

“Over 15 lakh tourists had arrived in the 38th edition, whereas this time, in just 9 days, 7.28 lakh tourists have become a part of the fair. The upcoming Valentine's week is expected to further increase the number of tourists, which could lead to the fair breaking all previous records”, Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma said.

The ninth day began on a sombre note, with a two-minute silence held in memory of Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who died while on duty.

Safety steps after fatal swing accident

Authorities confirmed the swing area has been closed temporarily following Saturday’s accident.

“In light of the recent unfortunate incident, the swing area has been temporarily closed as a precaution pending further investigation. Authorities are reviewing safety standards rigorously. All other cultural, craft, food, and entertainment events within the festival complex remain safe and are operating smoothly,” the authorities said in a statement.

The accident occurred at about 6 pm on Saturday when a swing carrying around 19 riders tilted before crashing to the ground. Twelve people were injured and one person — Inspector Jagdish Prasad, 58 — died. He had received the Police Medal from the Haryana governor in 2019-20.

Officials also reported that a gate collapsed roughly an hour earlier, injuring two people, including a child.

Probe ordered; arrests made in connection with incident

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has ordered a detailed report to determine the cause of the accident and promised strict action against those responsible.

An FIR has been registered, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), Faridabad, following directions from Haryana DGP Ajay Singhal.

Police said a case has been lodged against Mohammad Shakir, proprietor of Himachal Fun Care Company, which installed the swings, under charges including culpable homicide not amounting to murder and other legal provisions. Shakir and another accused, Nitesh, have been arrested.

The Surajkund International Crafts Mela, held annually in Faridabad, is running from January 31 to February 15 this year. The 39th edition highlights the vision of Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat.