The National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) under the Employment Ministry is launching a preliminary investigation into an incident involving the MG Rocket Ride, which took place on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The ride’s owner reported the incident to the Ministry around 3:25 PM.
Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh confirmed that the OHS Team promptly arrived at the scene to determine the cause of the incident. After their investigation, the NOHSS identified the problem and issued a prohibition notice, instructing the ride owner and operator to cease operations immediately.
The MG Rocket Ride consists of six carts, each able to accommodate two children, and at the time of the incident, it was fully loaded with 12 passengers. According to reports, the third cart experienced a turnbuckle failure, resulting in the cart tilting to the left and causing the rear left side of the rocket wing to come into contact with the ground. The turnbuckle is crucial for keeping the cart aligned and secure.
The turnbuckle located on the right side of cart No. 3 remained intact, and all children were properly secured with seat belts. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the riders. The seat belts effectively restrained passengers, and the carts are securely attached to the rotating arms with bolts and nuts, preventing dislodgment.
Singh noted that the investigation into the turnbuckle failure is ongoing, and the MG Rocket Ride will stay closed for the time being. He added that the NOHSS Team had conducted thorough health and safety inspections, testing, and certification of all amusement rides before their operation at the current Hibiscus festival.
Additionally, ride owners and operators participated in a standard operating procedures orientation on August 30, 2024, at the Ministry’s office. The NOHSS team monitored the rides over the past three days since the festival commenced and will continue to oversee operations throughout the event to ensure safety.