Maharashtra government tables bill to regulate escalators, lifts

The bill has been introduced to replace the existing Maharashtra Lifts Act, 1939 in the wake of rapid improvements in technology, and standards in installation of lifts in establishments.

The state government on Tuesday tabled the Maharashtra Lifts, Escalators and Moving Walks Bill in the legislative Assembly for regulation of lifts, escalators and moving walks in buildings and establishments.

Maharashtra has close to 1.23 lakh elevators. (HT File)

The new law makes it mandatory to have third party insurance to cover the risk of passengers using them.

The bill has been introduced to replace existing Maharashtra Lifts Act, 1939, in wake of rapid improvements in technology and standards in installation of lifts in establishments. Since escalators and moving walks are not covered under the existing Act, the state cabinet gave its nod to replacement three weeks ago.

The devices, as per new law, will have to conform to the standards laid down by Bureau of Indian Standards or the National Building Code. It also makes it mandatory that operators provide annual maintenance and audit by an approved contractor.

The bill has the provision of a penalty of up to Rs 50,000 extending to Rs 1,000 per day if institutions with lifts, escalators continue with violation of the Act. The bill has given powers to the officials to conduct surprise checks and inspect the machines, and discontinue operations of machines that do not comply with the mandatory rules.

Maharashtra has close to 1.23 lakh elevators. The bill has the provision of licence for 20 years. It has the provision of appointment of a chief electrical inspector, electrical inspector and assistant electrical inspectors to inspect, test and approve the operation of lifts and escalators.