Shanghai LEGOLAND Roller Coaster Malfunction Leaves Visitors Stranded in Scorching Heat
On June 28 around noon, a serious malfunction occurred at Shanghai LEGOLAND, located in Jinshan District, when the popular ride “LEGO Grand Coaster” suddenly stopped mid-operation. According to eyewitnesses, more than a dozen visitors were left dangling on the inclined track for over 40 minutes under intense summer heat.
That day, the Shanghai Meteorological Department had issued an orange high-temperature alert, with outdoor temperatures soaring to 37°C (98.6°F). The incident quickly ignited public concern as photos circulated online showing multiple carriages frozen high above the ground, passengers visibly distressed.
Mr. Wang, a visitor who witnessed the event, recounted to reporters from Shell Finance that the roller coaster was climbing the track when it abruptly ground to a halt. “Some passengers were crying,” he said, describing the tense atmosphere as the ride hung motionless in the oppressive heat. Park staff arrived within minutes to reassure those stuck on the ride.
After approximately 40 minutes, all trapped visitors were safely evacuated to ground level under staff guidance. “Everyone was escorted to a safe area, and no one was injured,” Mr. Wang confirmed.
A spokesperson from the Shanghai LEGOLAND Guest Services Center told reporters that the stoppage was handled in line with established emergency procedures. “As soon as we identified the ride had halted, our team began evacuating and calming guests immediately,” the spokesperson said.
By 5 p.m. the same day, Shell Finance reporters noted that the “LEGO Grand Coaster” had resumed operations, as indicated on the LEGOLAND Shanghai app. The park’s management stated they would “continue to closely monitor the condition of every guest affected to ensure they can still have a positive experience during their visit.”
Public reaction online has been mixed, with many expressing relief that no one was injured, while others criticized the park’s preparedness for such incidents, particularly during high-temperature conditions. Some commented that more robust contingency plans should be in place for extreme weather.
The incident comes just days before the park’s official opening on July 5. Shanghai LEGOLAND is the world’s 11th LEGOLAND resort and the largest LEGOLAND ever built. Currently in trial operation, it has already attracted thousands of visitors eager to experience its themed attractions.
Open records show the resort features a wide array of family-focused rides, immersive LEGO-themed zones, and interactive exhibits. The LEGO Grand Coaster is billed as one of its signature thrill rides, designed to deliver “an unforgettable adventure” to guests of all ages.
An operations manager at LEGOLAND Shanghai told reporters that in addition to emergency evacuation training, staff are prepared to deal with heat-related risks, and water and shade were provided to the affected guests immediately after their evacuation.
While the ride has since reopened, the park pledged to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the malfunction and to reinforce safety checks. “Guest safety is our top priority,” the spokesperson emphasized. “We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and stress this incident caused.”
As Shanghai braces for more heatwaves this summer, LEGOLAND’s response to this incident will likely shape public confidence as it transitions from test runs to official full-scale operation in the coming week.
