Four injured after fair ride collapses at Phillaur religious gathering

At least four people sustained serious injuries after an amusement ride malfunctioned and collapsed during an annual fair at Dera Baba Brahmdas in Punjab’s Phillaur town, triggering panic among devotees and visitors gathered at the event.

According to preliminary information, around 30 people were on the ride when a mechanical failure allegedly caused one of its compartments to detach and crash to the ground. The incident occurred during the annual fair and religious congregation held at the shrine, which attracts large numbers of devotees from different parts of the region every year.

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Eyewitnesses said the ride had completed only a few rotations when a nut-and-bolt assembly reportedly loosened and broke, causing a section of the structure to fall. Several passengers were trapped inside the damaged compartment and suffered injuries in the impact. Some people standing nearby were also hurt after being struck by parts of the ride.

Local residents and fairgoers immediately rushed to help the injured and pulled them from the wreckage. Before emergency services could arrive, several victims were transported to medical facilities in auto-rickshaws and private vehicles. The injured were first taken to the Civil Hospital in Phillaur, while four critically injured individuals were later shifted to a private hospital for specialised treatment.

Doctors treating the victims said the injured persons were in serious condition but were reported to be out of danger. Their treatment is continuing under medical supervision. Authorities said the identities of some of the injured were still being verified.

The accident created chaos at the fairground as frightened visitors gathered around the site. Witnesses claimed the ride appeared old and worn out, though officials have not yet confirmed whether poor maintenance contributed to the incident.

Police reached the scene soon after receiving information and launched an investigation. Officials said statements from the injured and witnesses would be recorded before further action is taken. They added that the ride would undergo a detailed inspection, and legal action would be initiated against those found responsible for any negligence.

Police also said the owner of the ride was not present at the scene after the accident, and efforts were underway to trace him. Workers associated with the ride have been called for questioning as part of the inquiry.

Authorities stated that strict action would be taken if safety violations or operational lapses were established during the investigation. The exact cause of the collapse will be determined after a technical examination of the ride.

Dera Baba Brahmdas, located in Phillaur in Jalandhar district, is a well-known religious and spiritual centre that draws devotees from across Punjab and neighbouring areas. The annual June fair and commemorative gathering at the shrine attract large crowds each year, and the accident occurred while visitors were participating in fair-related activities.