Jhabua: A major safety lapse at the ‘No Mela’ fair in Jhabua put the lives of 29 children at risk on Monday afternoon. At the event, 140 students from Sandipani School were allowed to ride a ‘Dragon Swing’ designed for just 50 children. As the swing gained momentum, its supporting pillars gave way, causing it to crash beyond the boundary wall.
The incident occurred around 4 PM at the school grounds hosting the fair. The Dragon Swing, with a capacity of 40 to 50 children, was overcrowded due to the school management offering a free ride for the students. The sudden overloading led to the structural failure of both pillars, resulting in the swing toppling outside the boundary wall and injuring 29 children.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Bystanders rushed the injured students to nearby hospitals using scooters and bikes. All the children involved are reportedly in the 10th grade. Following the incident, the administration immediately shut down the fair. Jhabua Collector Neha Meena confirmed that a magisterial inquiry has been initiated, and strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible.
Free Ride Offer Lured Crowds
The school management had arranged for the children to enjoy one complimentary ride each. This special offer attracted a large number of students, prompting the operator to allow all 140 children on the swing at once—far exceeding its safe capacity.
The incident underscores the dangers of overcrowding amusement rides and the critical importance of adhering to safety regulations at public events.
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