Rishikesh: A bungee jumping adventure turned into a near-fatal accident at Thrill Factory Adventure Park after the rope snapped mid-jump, sending a 24-year-old youth crashing into a tin shed below. The terrifying moment was captured on camera and shared online, sparking widespread outrage and serious concerns over safety standards at adventure tourism sites in the region.

Rope breaks moments after jump

The victim, identified as Sonu Kumar, a BA student from Gurgaon, had just leapt off the platform when the rope unexpectedly broke. Instead of bouncing upward as expected, he fell directly onto a tin roof beneath the jump site. Onlookers can be heard screaming in horror as the incident unfolds on video.

The footage was posted by content creator Sujal Thakral on Instagram, who happened to be present at the site. His clip, captioned “Bungee jumping live incident caught on camera in Rishikesh,” has since gone viral, shocking viewers across India.

Victim rushed to hospital without on-site medical help

According to Thakral, the situation became even more alarming after the fall. He claimed that there was no ambulance or trained medical staff available at the adventure park. He and other bystanders rushed Sonu to AIIMS–Rishikesh in a private vehicle, as the youth had suffered severe injuries.

Doctors reportedly confirmed serious fractures to Sonu’s chest and left arm. His condition continues to be described as critical.

Thakral added that thrill-seekers are required to sign safety declarations before participating in the jump. However, he alleged that operators often hide behind these documents to avoid accountability when accidents occur.

Safety concerns intensify

The incident has reignited debates around safety protocols in Rishikesh, a major hub for adventure sports such as rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping and zip-lining. Many users on Instagram questioned how such activities were allowed to operate without rigorous equipment checks or emergency preparedness.

One user remarked, “When it comes to adventure sports and adventure tourism in India, it’s a matter of when and not if fatal accidents are going to happen.” Another commented that Sonu should file a legal case and seek compensation, while others described the video as their “worst nightmare” come true.

The absence of safety nets, backup ropes, or even basic on-site medical support has raised questions about regulation and oversight. Adventure tourism has boomed in the region over the years, but enforcement of safety guidelines remains inconsistent.

Viral reaction and calls for accountability

Since being posted on 13 November 2025, the video has amassed over 3 lakh likes and thousands of comments. Many viewers demanded strict action against the operators for alleged negligence, while others argued for mandatory safety audits at all adventure parks.

The incident comes amid a series of safety-related accidents in India’s adventure tourism sector, including paragliding mishaps and mechanical failures at local fairs. Experts have long argued for uniform regulations and proper training for staff to prevent such tragic events.

HT.com has reached out to Sujal Thakral for further details, and updates are awaited.

Conclusion

The Rishikesh bungee-jumping accident has once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter safety measures and accountability in adventure tourism. With growing public concern, authorities may now face renewed pressure to enforce regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.