Despite the tragic events of the previous day, where a police officer lost his life, the Surajkund International Self-Reliant Crafts Fair continued as usual and saw a huge crowd on Sunday, with people barely having space to stand, officials said.
When the fair reopened after Saturday’s incidents, footfall was initially low, with only a handful of visitors. However, as word spread that the fair was open, crowds began to swell, and by 2 pm, the turnout had become overwhelming.
According to the fair management, around 50,000 people visited on Saturday, while more than 2.25 lakh visitors have been recorded so far on Sunday. Officials said additional gates were opened to manage the heavy rush.
Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma said, “Over
1.5 million tourists attended the 38th edition, and this time, in just 9 days, 728,000 tourists have visited. With Valentine’s week coming up, the number of tourists is expected to rise even more, possibly breaking all previous records.”
The ninth day of the fair began on a sombre note with a two-minute silence observed for Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who died while on duty. By 3 pm, all seats at the stage were occupied, with visitors even standing in the last rows to watch the proceedings.
Authorities said, ‘Due to the recent accident, the swing area has been temporarily closed for safety and further investigation. Safety standards are being reviewed carefully. All other cultural, craft, food, and entertainment events are safe and running smoothly.’
One person was killed and 11 were injured affer a swing carrying around 19 people tilted and crashed to the ground at 6 pm on Saturday. The deceased was Jagdish Prasad, a 58-year-old police inspector who received the Police Medal from the Haryana governor in 2019-20.
The accident happened just an hour after a gate collapsed at the fairground, injuring two people, including a child.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said a detailed report would be prepared to ascertain the cause of the accident and assured strict action against those responsible.
An FIR has been filed, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been set up under the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) in Faridabad, following orders from Haryana DGP Ajay Singhal.
According to Haryana Police, a case has been filed against Mohammad Shakir, the owner of Himachal Fun Care Company, who installed the swings, under charges including culpable homicide not amounting to murder and other relevant laws.
During the investigation, Shakir and another accused, Nitesh, were arrested. The world-famous Surajkund International Crafts Fair is held annually in Faridabad, and its 39th edition is underway from January 31 to February 15, centred on the theme of Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
(With inputs from PTI)
