Lucknow, Dec 26 (Representative) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday directed issued directives has given to frame a law to ensure the safety and security of liftsor escalators installed in multi-storey buildings. During a high-level meeting, the CM gave necessary guidelines in this regard. He said that due to rapid urbanization and proliferation of multi-storey buildings, the use of lifts and escalators is increasing. “Complaints are received about lifts and escalators installed in public places with high footfall, regarding their design, installation as well as improper operation and maintenance,” he said. He said that lifts and escalators are used by general public as well as the elderly, children, sick and disabled people. “Their safety is very important. For this purpose, it is necessary to strictly ensure adherence to prescribed procedures for construction, quality, built-in safety features, installation, operation and maintenance of lifts and escalators,” he said.
The CM said that at present there is no applicable law in this regard in the state, whereas the Lift Act is in force in other provinces of the country. “This needs to be implemented as soon as possible,” he said. He said, “It should be made mandatory for every owner installing a new lift and escalator, whether it is located on a private or public premises, to register. This should also be made mandatory for already installed and operated lifts and escalators.” Yogi directed to make compliance with BIS standards mandatory in the construction of lifts and escalators. “In their installation, compliance with relevant building codes and other necessary codes should also be ensured,” he said. He said that for the safety of passengers in the lift, it should be mandatory to install auto rescue device, so that in case of power supply or any other fault, the passenger trapped inside the lift reaches the nearest landing and the lift door opens automatically.
It should also be mandatory to install emergency bells, CCTV cameras, adequate lighting and communication system to communicate outside the lift. The CM said that it is necessary in the larger public interest that there should be a provision for insurance to cover the risk to passengers in case of any accident during the operation of lifts and escalators installed on public premises. He said that if any complaint or adverse information is received regarding the installation and operation of lift and escalator, provision should also be made for legal action against the manufacturer, or other concerned agency. Yogi directed to ensure that in case of any accident resulting in human or animal loss or injury during operation of lifts and escalators, the local police station is informed without any delay.