A devastating ride malfunction at Green Mountain Park in Taif, Saudi Arabia, has left 23 people injured, three critically, after the “360 Big Pendulum” ride catastrophically failed on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. The incident, also referred to as the “360 Degrees” ride, saw its central support pole snap mid-air, sending the carousel plummeting to the ground. Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, the governor of the region, has responded by ordering an immediate investigation and closure of the park. The event has sparked widespread concern regarding amusement park safety and rigorous inspection protocols.
The Incident Unfolds
Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the moments leading up to the collapse. According to reports from multiple sources, including FOX 11 Los Angeles, a loud cracking sound preceded the structural failure. Videos circulating on social media corroborate these accounts, displaying the ride’s central support pole breaking in two, resulting in the passenger-filled carousel crashing. The sudden and violent nature of the incident resulted in immediate chaos, with bystanders rushing to provide assistance to the injured. Some individuals sustained injuries not only from the initial fall but also from the recoiling central pole, which reportedly whipped around at high speed.
Emergency Response and Initial Aftermath
Emergency services were promptly dispatched to Green Mountain Park, providing immediate first aid to the injured at the scene. Victims were then transported to various hospitals in the Taif region for further medical treatment. The severity of the injuries underscores the critical need for a thorough investigation into the cause of the ride’s malfunction. The immediate closure of Green Mountain Park, as ordered by Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, reflects the seriousness with which the authorities are treating this incident.
Official Investigation Launched
Following the “360 Big Pendulum” incident, a comprehensive investigation has been initiated to determine the root cause of the structural failure. The investigation, overseen by regional authorities, will likely focus on several key areas to ascertain responsibility and prevent future occurrences. These areas include the ride’s maintenance history, the frequency and thoroughness of safety inspections, the materials used in its construction, and adherence to safety regulations and operational protocols.
Potential Areas of Inquiry
The investigation will likely explore several potential contributing factors. One critical area of focus will be the ride’s maintenance records. Investigators will seek to determine whether the ride was regularly inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Any deviations from the recommended maintenance schedule or the use of substandard replacement parts could be considered contributing factors. Furthermore, the age of the ride and the number of operational hours it has accumulated will likely be examined to assess whether fatigue or wear and tear played a role in the failure. As reported by The News International, a comprehensive technical review of the ride’s design and construction is also expected.
Regulatory Oversight and Compliance
Another crucial aspect of the investigation will be to assess the level of regulatory oversight and compliance with safety standards. Investigators will examine whether Green Mountain Park and the ride operator adhered to all applicable safety regulations and obtained the necessary permits and licenses. The frequency and thoroughness of safety inspections conducted by regulatory authorities will also be scrutinized. Any deficiencies in the regulatory framework or lax enforcement of safety standards could be identified as contributing factors to the incident. Khaleej Times reports that the investigation will also consider the qualifications and training of the ride operators to ensure they were adequately prepared to handle emergency situations.
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
The fairground ride incident has garnered significant media attention, both locally and internationally. News outlets such as FOX 11 Los Angeles, KSL.com, Yahoo News, The Times of India, The News International, MustShareNews, Arab News, and The Nightly have all reported on the event, highlighting the severity of the injuries and the ongoing investigation. The widespread media coverage reflects the public’s concern about amusement park safety and the need for accountability.
Social Media’s Role
Social media platforms have played a significant role in disseminating information and shaping public opinion regarding the incident. Shocking videos of the ride’s collapse have been widely shared, generating outrage and calls for stricter safety regulations. The speed at which information spread through social media amplified the impact of the tragedy and prompted swift action from authorities. The public’s reaction on social media underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the aftermath of such incidents.
Ensuring Amusement Park Safety
The tragic incident at Green Mountain Park serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in amusement park operations. Maintaining high safety standards requires a multi-faceted approach involving regular inspections, proper maintenance, robust regulatory oversight, and well-trained staff. The incident has prompted renewed calls for stricter safety regulations and increased vigilance to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. This ride malfunction must serve as a catalyst for change.
Key Recommendations for Enhanced Safety
Several key recommendations can be implemented to enhance safety in amusement parks. Regular and thorough inspections of all rides and attractions are essential, with a focus on identifying potential structural weaknesses or mechanical issues. Preventive maintenance programs should be implemented to ensure that rides are properly maintained and that worn or damaged parts are replaced promptly. Regulatory oversight should be strengthened to ensure that amusement parks comply with all applicable safety standards and that inspections are conducted effectively. Finally, ride operators should receive comprehensive training to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate rides safely and respond effectively to emergency situations.
The collapse of the “360 Big Pendulum” ride in Taif, Saudi Arabia, resulting in numerous injuries, underscores the critical need for unwavering commitment to safety within the amusement park industry. The ongoing investigation, ordered by Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, must be thorough and transparent, leading to actionable recommendations that prevent future incidents. The safety and well-being of park visitors must remain the paramount concern, demanding continuous improvement and vigilance from operators, regulators, and manufacturers alike.
