Maharashtra Enforces Strict Safety Regime for Lifts and Escalators Starting November 1
MUMBAI — The Maharashtra government officially brought the Maharashtra Lifts, Escalators and Moving Walks Act, 2017 into force on November 1, establishing mandatory safety standards across the state. According to SCC Online, the new regulatory framework aims to curb rising vertical transportation accidents by enforcing strict installation, maintenance, and inspection protocols for all public and private buildings.
The implementation addresses long-standing safety concerns regarding unregulated equipment maintenance in high-rise residential and commercial complexes.
Rapid urbanization across Mumbai and other major cities led to a surge in high-rise developments. This growth overwhelmed older regulatory frameworks, creating critical safety gaps.
Under the new regime, building owners must secure official registration for all existing and new installations. Certified engineers must conduct rigorous annual safety inspections without exception.
Owners face severe penalties for non-compliance with the newly established statutory guidelines. The legislation also mandates immediate reporting of any mechanical failures or structural accidents.
State authorities will establish specialized inspection cells to oversee enforcement procedures. Property managers must display valid safety certificates prominently near all operational units.
Officials urge building associations to review their current maintenance contracts immediately. Stakeholders expect these measures to significantly reduce elevator malfunctions statewide.
Source – Scconline
