THE operator of the Singapore Flyer, the world's biggest observation wheel, has come under heavy fire for a power breakdown which saw 173 passengers suspended midair in capsules for six hours on Tuesday.
Singaporeans were not only critical of the breakdown but also of the unsatisfactory response to it, particularly the crude manner in which some passengers were evacuated.
The Flyer's team of rescuers rappelled down 10 of those who were trapped. These passengers were clearly traumatised by this mode of rescue.
Concerned citizens like Mr David Soh wrote to my paper to express his misgivings.
He asked whether the Flyer staff and the Singapore authorities had conducted any simulation of breakdowns and whether they had a set of procedures for evacuation.
"Singapore might be tops in many things, but is it well-prepared for emergencies?" he asked.
Mr Teo Kueh Liang, who also wrote to my paper, said that the slow and "insufficient" response by Flyer staff contributed to the anxiety and distress of the stranded passengers.
He pointed out: "If what was said by Singapore Flyer general manager Steven Yeo that the Flyer has six drive units and can operate at any one time with just three, then why did the stoppage still occur?"
The incident sparked off considerable online chatter, most of it critical of the operator of Singapore Flyer.
Said Sijori84 in The Straits Times website Stomp: "This incident would really give tourists a bad impression of Singapore, especially since the attraction is newly opened and is not exactly a cheap pasar malam (night-market) ride.
"The Singapore Flyer should learn from the other flyers around the world on how they maintain the structure in even harsher weather conditions."
