A night of festivities turned into chaos after a giant swing ride collapsed mid-operation at a local fair in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district, leaving around 30 people injured, several of them seriously.

The incident occurred at the Bhainsaha (Chait Barni) Mela in the Khadda area late at night, when the nearly 60-foot-tall ride suddenly gave way while in motion. According to initial reports, the swing was carrying around 70 to 80 people at the time of the incident, including women and children.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the structure collapsed after completing just a couple of rounds. Screams filled the air as riders were thrown off or trapped in the wreckage, prompting bystanders to rush in for rescue efforts.

Emergency services were quickly alerted, and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals. Officials said more than 10 victims are believed to be in critical condition, raising concerns over the severity of the accident.

Preliminary findings suggest that overcrowding and possible structural or anchoring failures may have contributed to the collapse.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine whether safety norms were violated and to assign responsibility to the ride operators.

The annual fair, which draws large crowds from nearby areas, was immediately thrown into disarray following the incident. Police and local administration worked through the night to manage the situation and ensure medical assistance for the injured.

Videos of the incident have since surfaced on social media, showing the towering ride crashing down as horrified onlookers scramble for safety.

The visuals have reignited concerns over inadequate safety checks and regulation of amusement rides at local fairs.

This latest incident adds to a series of similar accidents reported across India in recent months, underscoring the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety standards at public events.