Daijiworld Media Network - Cuttack

Cuttack, Nov 13: Panic gripped visitors at the famous Bali Jatra fair on Wednesday night after a mechanical swing ride suddenly malfunctioned mid-motion, leaving eight people — including a woman and two children — stranded nearly 30 feet above the ground for over two hours.

The incident occurred around 11 p.m. when the swing abruptly stopped while in operation, trapping the passengers in mid-air. Eyewitnesses said the fairground was thrown into chaos as anxious family members pleaded for help while authorities rushed to the spot.

A rescue operation was swiftly launched under the supervision of Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo and other senior officers. With the help of a hydraulic lift, all eight trapped individuals were safely brought down after a tense two-hour ordeal.

“They were visibly shaken but safe. All the trapped persons have been rescued,” DCP Dnyandeo confirmed after the operation.

The rescued individuals were later taken to a nearby hospital for medical examination. Police have initiated an inquiry into the cause of the malfunction and are reviewing safety protocols followed by the ride operator.

The Bali Jatra, one of Odisha’s largest annual fairs, attracts thousands of visitors every day. The incident has sparked concerns over the maintenance and safety standards of amusement rides at the event.