The National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) of the Employment Ministry is investigating an accident involving the MG Rocket Ride that occurred on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The incident was reported to the Ministry by the ride’s owner 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 mishap. The investigation revealed that a turnbuckle on cart No.3 broke, leading to the cart tilting to the left and causing the rocket wing’s rear left side to scrape against the ground. The turnbuckle is meant to secure and align the cart.
Fortunately, the turnbuckle on cart No.3 remained intact, and all children were securely fastened with seat belts. Reports indicate that no injuries were sustained by any of the riders, and the seat belts effectively restrained passengers during the incident. The carts are mechanically secured with two bolts and nuts, preventing them from detaching from the six rotating arms of the ride.
Singh noted that the investigation into the failure of the turnbuckle is ongoing, and the MG Rocket Ride will remain closed. Prior to the operation of amusement rides for the Hibiscus festival, the NOHSS team conducted thorough OHS inspections, testing, and certification of all rides.
The owners and operators underwent standard operating procedures training on August 30, 2024, at the Ministry of Employment Office. Additionally, the NOHSS team monitored the rides during the festival’s opening weekend and will continue to oversee their safe operation throughout the event.