Ocean Park's "Sky Tower" has malfunctioned again, trapping 41 passengers. Around 3 PM on November 9th, someone reported that the tower was suspected to be malfunctioning and passengers were trapped, with one person experiencing discomfort. The fire and rescue teams arrived to handle the situation. It was reported that the observation deck was suspended around 70 meters above the ground. At approximately 4 PM, a firefighter known as the "Flying General" used rescue equipment to rappel down from the observation deck and rescued an uncomfortable woman who was mobility-impaired. The remaining 40 passengers were guided by staff via backup staircases to return to the ground. The cause of the incident is still under investigation. The observation deck is 200 meters high, and can be raised to 72 meters for visitors to enjoy views of Hong Kong and the islands. Last May, the tower also malfunctioned, trapping 17 passengers for nearly two hours before being evacuated via a safe exit. Subsequently, Ocean Park briefly suspended the operation of the Sky Tower.
Ocean Park is facing ongoing scrutiny over its equipment reliability. This incident highlights the need for regular safety inspections and tests. The park has a history of safety issues, with the last year witnessing two separate incidents involving the Sky Tower. In the first incident, 17 passengers were trapped for two hours, prompting a temporary suspension of the ride. The recurring failures have led to questions about the maintenance and safety measures in place. Ocean Park claims it will conduct a comprehensive inspection and repeat testing to ensure the safety of its rides. The park could face further scrutiny and potential legal actions due to this latest incident.
The general trend of amusement park accidents in Hong Kong has seen a rise in recent years, with stricter regulations and increased oversight being necessary. Safety experts recommend that rides be subject to regular maintenance and testing, with quick response mechanisms in place in the event of malfunctions. The incident at Ocean Park raises concerns about the reliability of its facilities and the ability of staff to handle emergency situations swiftly and effectively. There is a growing pressure on amusement parks to prioritize passenger safety over operational efficiency.