The popular Pirate River ride at the AIA Hong Kong World Carnival in Admiralty has been shut down permanently after an accident in which three people were injured, one seriously, organisers said yesterday.
A huge sign collapsed on the ride's elevated tracks on Tuesday. Strong winds have been blamed for toppling the metal signboard, which had coloured lights spelling out Pirate River and measured 15 metres by four.
Other mechanical rides operated as usual yesterday at the fun fair, which is due to close on Monday.
Engineers from the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department and police carried out an extensive inspection of the accident site. A department spokesman said a report would be available next week.
A 26-year-old woman's condition improved from serious to stable at Queen Mary Hospital yesterday. A 28-year-old woman and a 26-year-old man were in satisfactory condition.
Teresa Hong Wai-hing, a public relations officer hired by the AIA Hong Kong World Carnival, said all rides had been approved by the department, but declined to comment because of the ongoing investigation.