New Safety Rules Proposed for Amusement Parks in Kerala

Amusement parks in Kerala must set up child help desks and appoint child safety officers, according to a recent order by the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

Ride Safety and Rules

The commission acted on a petition filed by S. Gautham, a resident of Kurichakam in Kozhikode. The panel stated that parents, park owners, and the government share the responsibility of preventing accidents and protecting children. Park operators must get regular safety checks done by technical experts and obtain valid safety certificates. Every ride needs experienced staff, working locking mechanisms, and active safety centers. Parks must also display the name and details of the licencee responsible for any safety lapses in a visible spot.

Emergency Care and Guidelines

Each park must have systems in place to provide urgent medical treatment if an accident happens. Safety signs and instructions at every ride must be easy for children to understand. Parks must also ensure suitable safety features for differently abled children. All parks in the State must follow past directions issued by the Kerala High Court and the Local Self-government department. A high-power committee will now create formal safety guidelines and child safety protocols. This committee will include the Kerala State Pollution Control Board Secretary, the Public Works Mechanical division superintending engineer, the Director of Kerala Fire and Rescue Services, and the Local Self-Governments department Principal Director, backed by technical inspection agencies. The panel will also plan a child safety campaign with the help of the parks, with the LSGD Principal Director taking charge of its implementation. The original petition noted that small children visit these parks often, but many locations fail to ensure proper safety despite earlier court verdicts and government rules.

Context

State child rights panels in India act on public complaints to protect young citizens and ensure public spaces follow safety laws. Amusement parks involve fast-moving mechanical rides that require strict technical upkeep to prevent injuries. Public authorities often step in with mandatory guidelines when private operators fail to maintain voluntary safety standards.