In response to a series of tragic accidents at amusement facilities in Gujarat, which claimed 45 lives, the state government has unveiled a comprehensive set of draft regulations aimed at enhancing safety and maintenance standards for amusement parks and gaming zones.
The proposed Gujarat Amusement Rides and Gaming Zone Activities (Safety) Rules, 2024, mark a significant step towards ensuring public safety and regulatory compliance. The catalyst for these stringent measures includes several high-profile incidents: the Kankaria ride failure in July 2019, which resulted in two fatalities; the Harni Lake boat capsize in January 2024, which claimed 16 lives, including 12 children; and the Rajkot gaming zone fire in May 2024, which led to 27 deaths. These incidents have underscored the urgent need for a robust regulatory framework.
The new 62-page draft rules mandate the establishment of city or district ride safety and inspection committees (CRSCI/DRSCI). These committees will evaluate whether safety and maintenance protocols are being adhered to for amusement rides installed for periods exceeding three months. Licences will be granted for a minimum of two years, ensuring sustained compliance. Additionally, temporary fairs lasting less than three months will now also require licensing. Operators must secure third-party liability insurance, covering at least Rs 10 lakh per patron in the event of death or permanent disability, Rs 7.5 lakh for partial disability, and Rs 2 lakh for hospitalisation expenses. Fire safety drills and adverse incident evacuation exercises must be conducted every 90 days, ensuring preparedness for emergencies.
The rules stipulate that the commissioner of police or district magistrate, depending on the location, will serve as the licensing authority for these amusement rides and gaming zones. Mandatory certifications for fire safety, evacuation plans, building use (BU) permissions, structural stability, health, sanitation, and electrical installations are prerequisites for licence approval. Site inspections by CRSCI or DRSCI will precede the issuance of licences. For gaming zones, the draft rules require regular inspections of all equipment, including hydraulic and pneumatic devices, fire safety systems, control panels, braking systems, and emergency stop mechanisms. These measures aim to ensure the highest safety standards across all operational facets.
The draft of the new rules has been made available on the home department’s website, inviting objections and suggestions from the public until June 25. This inclusive approach aims to refine the regulations further, incorporating valuable feedback from stakeholder The introduction of the Gujarat Amusement Rides and Gaming Zone Activities (Safety) Rules, 2024, represents a proactive effort by the state government to address safety concerns in the amusement sector. By mandating rigorous safety protocols and regular inspections, the government aims to prevent future tragedies and ensure a safer environment for amusement park visitors and gaming zone patrons. As these rules progress from draft to implementation, the emphasis on public safety and regulatory compliance remains paramount.
