Faridabad, FEB 7: A veteran police inspector lost his life and 13 others sustained injuries after a swing and a main entrance gate collapsed in separate incidents at the Surajkund International Crafts Fair on Saturday evening. The deceased, identified as 58-year-old Inspector Jagdish of the Palwal Police, was nearing retirement after 36 years of service.
The primary accident occurred around 6 pm when a swing carrying approximately 15 passengers tilted sharply and crashed to the ground. Inspector Jagdish, who was on duty at the fair, reportedly rushed toward the structure to assist those trapped but sustained fatal head and facial injuries during the rescue attempt.
“The inspector showed immense bravery while trying to save visitors. Unfortunately, he was seriously injured in the process and could not be saved,” a senior official noted while confirming the casualty.
Earlier in the afternoon, around 5 pm, Gate No. 2 of the fairgrounds suddenly gave way, injuring a resident of Sector 28 and a young child. Following the swing collapse an hour later, rescue teams moved nine victims to a private medical facility, while four others were treated at BK Civil Hospital.
District Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha and Tourism MD Parth Gupta arrived at the scene to oversee the emergency response. The fair, which features artisans from across the country, has seen heightened security and administrative presence following the tragedies.
“We have initiated a thorough investigation into these lapses, and a First Information Report will be registered. Strict action is guaranteed against anyone found responsible for the structural failures,” the Deputy Commissioner mentioned.
