Closure of the 'Panoramic Observation Wheel' Attraction
The 'Panoramic Observation Wheel' attraction in Podil has been closed at the request of the prosecutor's office. The owner of the attraction must begin dismantling the structure, which, according to inspection results, has been found to be in unsatisfactory condition. The latest order for dismantling was issued on December 22, 2023. The prosecutor's office also filed a petition to the court for the seizure of the attraction on December 26, 2023.
History of the Attraction and Safety Issues
The 'Observation Wheel' attraction was brought from France and installed in 2017. However, during a technical inspection conducted on October 21, 2025, it was found that the wooden beams of the structure showed signs of severe decay. Specialists from the Department have repeatedly issued orders for dismantling the attraction.
As mentioned by one of the specialists, 'the powers of the Department of Land Resources and the Department of Territorial Control of Kyiv do not include matters regarding the dismantling of similar structures.'
In July 2024, an inspection of the attraction was conducted following the death of a man. This became an additional factor that influenced the prosecutor's office's decision to close the attraction and file a petition to the court. Thus, safety concerns became one of the main reasons for taking such measures.
The closure of the 'Panoramic Observation Wheel' marks an important step in ensuring the safety of citizens at entertainment venues. The structural issues identified during inspections underline the necessity for regular monitoring of the condition of similar attractions, especially after incidents of injury or death. The relevant decisions of the prosecutor's office and the court could set a precedent for other cities facing similar safety issues with attractions.