What Happened at the Giant Wheel in Chennai? Amusement Park Temporarily Closed After Visitors Stranded Mid-Air
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Synopsis
A giant wheel malfunction at a Chennai amusement park left 36 visitors stranded mid-air, prompting a temporary closure for safety inspections. Eyewitness accounts highlight the panic experienced during the incident, which sparked calls for stricter safety regulations.
Key Takeaways
- 36 visitors stranded due to giant wheel malfunction.
- Emergency services conducted a successful rescue.
- Park closed for safety inspections.
- Authorities emphasize the need for rigorous safety checks.
- Incident raises calls for improved safety regulations.
Chennai, May 28 (NationPress) - The Neelankarai police have issued a directive for the temporary closure of a well-known amusement park in Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, after a horrifying incident where a malfunctioning giant wheel left 36 visitors, including many children, stranded mid-air.
The unsettling event unfolded on Tuesday evening when the giant wheel unexpectedly halted due to a suspected technical failure.
Witnesses recounted scenes of panic as the ride, which rotates in a full circular motion, suddenly stopped while riders were still suspended in the air. Thankfully, the structure remained intact, ensuring that the stranded individuals were not in danger of falling.
Emergency services were promptly notified, leading to a large-scale rescue operation.
District Fire Officer Loganathan stated, “We successfully rescued all 36 individuals, including 20 men and 16 women, using two sky lifts.”
The operation took nearly one and a half hours and involved approximately 35 personnel from the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services, with support from local police.
While no injuries were reported, the incident raised significant concern among visitors and local residents. Anxious parents and onlookers gathered at the site as the rescue mission progressed.
In response, Neelankarai police have sent a notice to the amusement park’s management, requesting a detailed account of the malfunction and a full set of safety compliance documents.
Officials conducted a comprehensive inspection of the park on Wednesday to evaluate safety standards and ensure adherence to routine maintenance protocols.
“The park will remain closed until the management submits the necessary documents and provides a satisfactory explanation,” confirmed a senior police official.
Authorities have emphasized the need for rigorous safety checks and regular maintenance across all amusement facilities in the city, particularly those featuring high-risk attractions like giant wheels and roller coasters.
This incident has ignited renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in public entertainment venues. Visitors who had left the park without harm expressed relief but stressed the importance of accountability to avert such incidents in the future.
Point of View
This incident underscores the critical importance of safety regulations in amusement parks across the country. The need for regular inspections and adherence to safety protocols is paramount to ensure the well-being of visitors. The authorities must respond with urgency to restore public trust in these entertainment facilities.
NationPress
30/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the giant wheel to malfunction?
The exact cause of the giant wheel malfunction is still under investigation, but it is suspected to be a technical glitch.
Were there any injuries reported?
Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident, and all stranded individuals were safely rescued.
How long did the rescue operation take?
The rescue operation lasted approximately one and a half hours, involving around 35 personnel from the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services.
Why was the amusement park closed?
The amusement park was closed to allow for a thorough inspection and to ensure that all safety compliance documents were submitted by the management.
What are the consequences of this incident?
This incident has raised concerns about safety regulations in amusement parks and has sparked calls for stricter enforcement of safety measures.
