LUCKNOW, Aug. 22 -- The lights of fairs are switched on, tickets are sold and crowds queue up for amusement rides, but who checks what happens before the first passenger takes a seat? An accident at a Sawan Mela in Indira Nagar has raised questions over the safety checks for temporary rides and the agency responsible for certifying them.

The issue comes ahead of the festive season, when several temporary fairs are expected across Lucknow. Swings, giant wheels and other rides are assembled at temporary sites and used by hundreds of visitors, including children. The accident has raised questions over whether their fitness is physically verified after permission is granted for a fair.

Two minor girls, aged 14 and 16, were injured at a Sawa...