Happyland ride collapse: Kerala Human Rights panel orders multi-level probe

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Human Rights Commission on Saturday ordered a Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO)-level inquiry into a recent amusement park accident in which around 14 people were injured after a ride collapsed.

State Human Rights Commission Chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas directed the District Collector to ensure a detailed investigation into the incident, according to a statement issued by the Commission.

Ride collapse under operation left several injured

Several people were injured after a ride malfunctioned and collapsed while in operation at Happyland Water Theme & Amusement Park, which falls under Venjaramoodu police station limits on May 28, police had said.

The Commission noted that the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) has been instructed to visit the site after issuing notices to the park management, the Manickal Grama Panchayat Secretary and the concerned Station House Officer, and to prepare a comprehensive report.

Compliance, safety checks under scrutiny

The inquiry has been directed to examine the cause of the accident, whether the park had a valid licence from the panchayat, and whether the ride had a fitness certificate. It must also include details of the injured, preventive measures to avoid recurrence, and the usability of the swimming pool at the park, the Commission said.

Based on the RDO’s findings, the District Collector has been asked to submit a detailed report to the Commission within three weeks.

The Commission also directed the Panchayat Secretary to clarify whether the licence was issued only after the ride received the required fitness certification, and to submit a report on post-accident action within three weeks.

Justice Thomas further ordered a probe at the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) level, directing the Rural District Police Chief to submit a report.

Representatives of the District Collector and the Rural District Police Chief, along with the Manickal Grama Panchayat Secretary, have been asked to appear before the Commission at its sitting scheduled for July 4.

The Commission initiated proceedings on its own based on media reports of the accident, the statement added.