Adventure tourism in Uttarakhand is under scrutiny after a Rishikesh bungee jump accident left a young visitor from Gurgaon critically injured on Wednesday afternoon. The incident has renewed safety concerns around adventure sports operations in the region, which draws thousands of thrill seekers every year.
According to officials, the accident occurred around 4 p.m. at Shivpuri Thrill Factory, an adventure park in the popular rafting and camping zone of Rishikesh. The victim, identified as 23-year-old Sonu, fell from a height of nearly 35 metres after the bungee rope allegedly malfunctioned. Eyewitnesses said the victim hit a tin shed below and cried out in pain while staff rushed to help him.
He suffered injuries to his chest and was admitted to AIIMS Rishikesh, where doctors said he responded well to treatment and is currently stable.
Investigation Begins, Safety Checks Ordered
Police from Muni Ki Reti station confirmed that a technical investigation is underway. Authorities have directed the adventure park to suspend operations until a fresh safety audit is completed.
Investigating officer Vinod Sharma told reporters that officials are examining whether the fall was due to a mechanical failure or a lapse in operator handling. Moreover, the company will need to obtain fresh approvals before reopening.
“We are finding out if it was caused due to negligence of the operator or the machine. Apart from clearances and NOCs, we have also asked them to undertake an audit from a competent technical team,” an officer said.
No FIR has been registered so far because the victim’s family has not filed a complaint. However, police said they will record the victim’s statement after his recovery.
Viral Video Sparks Public Outrage
A video circulating online shows Sonu lying on a tin sheet in severe pain while the rope remains suspended in the air. The clip has sparked debate about inadequate safety checks at commercial adventure setups.
This incident follows multiple warnings issued in recent years over unregulated adventure tourism in Uttarakhand, specifically in Rishikesh, which is known for bungee jumping, rafting, and ziplining.
About the Shivpuri Thrill Factory
The adventure park is known for activities such as:
- Bungee Jumping
- Rope Cycling
- SCAD (Suspended Catch Air Device) Jump
- Reverse Bungee Jump
The firm has not yet issued a public statement or responded to calls and messages seeking comment.
Growing Tourism, Growing Risks
Rishikesh has become one of India’s top adventure tourism hubs. However, experts say many operators lack adequate emergency response systems, trained personnel, or certified equipment checks.
Adventure sports safety laws require:
✔ Proper harness quality checks
✔ Qualified and trained instructors
✔ Verified structural and equipment audits
✔ Medical backup and evacuation capability
Safety activists argue that stronger enforcement is needed, especially during peak seasons.
What Happens Next?
The next steps in the investigation are expected to include:
A full technical inspection of the equipment
– Review of permits, NOCs and insurance compliance
– Recording statements of staff, management, and the injured visitor
– Suspension of activities until clearance
Authorities also indicated that the company may face charges if deliberate negligence is confirmed.
Impact on Adventure Tourism
The Rishikesh bungee jump accident may prompt stricter regulations and licensing reforms for adventure tourism in Uttarakhand. Tour operators expect temporary cancellations from tourists who are concerned about safety.
At the same time, local businesses say maintaining safety is crucial for the region’s economy, which depends heavily on tourism.