Faridabad: A tragic accident at the 39th Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad on Saturday evening claimed the life of a police officer and left at least 13 people injured after a fairground ride collapsed, authorities said.

The incident occurred at around 6.15 pm to 7 pm when a popular amusement attraction, described as a “Tsunami” swing ride, reportedly malfunctioned and suddenly broke down while several visitors were on board.

The structure came crashing to the ground with a loud thud, triggering panic among onlookers. According to police and eyewitness accounts, around a dozen to fifteen people were on the ride when it collapsed.

Several visitors suffered injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious trauma and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

A police inspector on duty, identified as Inspector Jagdish Prasad, was among those who rushed to help the injured at the site. He sustained severe injuries during the rescue effort and later succumbed to his wounds, officials confirmed.

District authorities, including Faridabad Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha and senior police officers, reached the scene swiftly after the accident was reported. They cordoned off the area and supervised the evacuation and medical assistance to those hurt.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to the family of the deceased and directing officials to ensure prompt and appropriate medical care for the injured.

Saini said the state government would provide all possible support to the victims and their families. The collapse has sparked serious concerns about safety standards at one of the country’s most popular cultural and craft fairs, which draws crowds from across India and abroad.

Organisers have begun cooperating with authorities to investigate the cause of the mishap, and police have said a formal inquiry will probe whether proper safety checks and licences were in place for the ride.

Back-to-back safety lapses became a focus of scrutiny, as reports also emerged that a decorative gate near one of the fair’s entrances collapsed earlier in the day due to strong winds, injuring a visitor.