Thiruvananthapuram: At least five people, including two children, were injured after a chair swing ride collapsed at Happyland Water Theme & Amusement Park in Vembayam near Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday, police said.

The incident occurred around 2 pm during peak holiday rush at the park, which was witnessing heavy footfall due to the school vacation season. Around 26 people were reportedly on the ride when part of the structure suddenly gave way.

Preliminary information suggests that a failure in the welded portion of the ride and its supporting metal structure led to the collapse while it was operating at height.

Family from Nagercoil among injured

The injured were identified as Manorathi (54), Seemani (49), Malini (49), Shyam Daniel (14), and Rose (16). All are tourists from Nagercoil and members of the same family.

They were first taken to nearby hospitals. One woman, who suffered serious injuries, was later shifted to the Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, for specialised treatment. Others were admitted to St John’s Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital and SUT Hospital. Officials said the remaining injured are stable, though some sustained fractures and other injuries.

Personnel from Kerala Police and Fire and Rescue Services rushed to the spot and moved the injured to hospitals. Witnesses said the collapse was followed by a loud sound, triggering panic inside the amusement park. Several people were reportedly trapped in the damaged section of the ride.

Probe into safety and maintenance checks

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident. Officials are examining whether the ride had undergone mandatory maintenance inspections and safety certification checks.

Authorities said strict action would follow if negligence or violation of safety norms is found against the park management. Locals claimed the ride showed signs of ageing, raising concerns over maintenance standards. However, the exact cause remains under investigation.