In Athens, Greece, a tense situation occurred at a renowned amusement park when children were stranded for 15 minutes on an elevated ride. The event at Allou! Fun Park in Athens was reportedly due to a short-term power failure, as stated by the park's operating company.
Eyewitnesses reported that the ride was immobilized in mid-air, leaving the children stranded at a significant height for what felt like an eternity. Visitors to the park indicated that the mechanical issue lasted between 15 to 20 minutes, despite some reports suggesting it could have lingered longer.
Social media was abuzz with a video capturing the tense atmosphere at the park. One user pointed out the absence of immediate backup power from generators, which might have expedited the rescue operation.
Fortunately, after considerable effort from park technicians, the ride was safely brought down, and all children were returned to the ground unharmed. The ride in question ranks among the tallest attractions at the park, heightening the cause of concern among onlookers.
"The ride was immobilized, and the children were trapped on it," recounted an eyewitness, underscoring the fear parents and children endured. Officials eventually addressed the issue using specialized equipment to control air pressure and stabilize the ride.
In response to the incident, Allou! Fun Park issued a statement addressing concerns raised by visitors and media reports. The company clarified that the ride's halt was due to a power outage executed by DEDDIE, rather than a mechanical failure. They emphasized that all safety protocols were followed, including the activation of generators and a controlled evacuation process to prevent overcrowding.
The episode sparked anxiety but also highlighted the park's adherence to safety protocols, which are subject to frequent inspections by relevant authorities. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable challenges amusement parks face and the importance of rigorous safety measures to protect visitors.
Despite the incident, Allou! Fun Park remains a popular destination for families seeking entertainment in the region, celebrated for its attractions that continue to function under stringent safety guidelines.