The National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) under the Employment Ministry is carrying out a preliminary investigation following an incident involving the MG Rocket Ride on Sunday, September 1, 2024.
The event was reported by the ride’s owner around 3:25 PM. Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh confirmed that the NOHSS team promptly arrived at the scene to determine the cause of the incident.
Upon investigation, the team found an issue that led to the issuance of a prohibition notice, requiring the ride owner and operator to halt operations of the MG Rocket Ride immediately. The ride, designed to carry up to 12 passengers with six carts capable of holding two children each, was fully loaded at the time of the incident.
It was identified that the turnbuckle of cart number three broke, resulting in the cart tilting to the left and causing the rear left wing of the rocket to make contact with the ground. The turnbuckle’s role is to maintain the cart’s alignment and position. Despite the incident, all children were securely fastened in their seats with seat belts, and there were no reported injuries.
Minister Singh stated that the turnbuckle’s failure is still under investigation and confirmed that the MG Rocket Ride will remain closed until further notice. He emphasized that before the amusement rides were permitted to operate for the weeklong Hibiscus festival, the NOHSS conducted safety inspections, testing, and certification of all rides.
On Friday, August 30, 2024, ride owners and operators underwent an orientation regarding standard operating procedures at the Ministry of Employment Office. Additionally, the NOHSS team has monitored the rides since their opening and will maintain a strong presence throughout the festival to ensure continued safety in operations.