Mumbai, March 4 – In a decisive move to enhance public safety, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday that the state government will significantly strengthen its lift inspection system. The initiative comes amid a surge in elevator installations across urban areas, aiming to ensure swift emergency responses and prevent accidents.
Currently, approximately 2.10 lakh lifts are operational in the state, with approvals granted for an additional 25,000 in recent months. The existing workforce struggles to keep pace with this growth, prompting the creation of 519 new positions dedicated to inspections. ‘However, as the number of lifts continues to rise rapidly, we anticipate the need for even more resources in the future,’ Fadnavis stated during his response to legislative queries.
Addressing concerns raised by members Niranjan Davkhare and Sachin Ahir regarding maintenance and repairs in housing societies, the CM outlined comprehensive reforms. Drawing inspiration from Mumbai’s successful third-party fire safety audits, a similar authorized third-party certification system will be introduced for lifts. Building owners will be mandated to conduct technical inspections and display valid certificates inside elevators, clearly indicating inspection dates and validity periods.
To empower inspection officials further, a bill has been tabled in the current budget session of the assembly. Fadnavis emphasized flexibility, noting potential amendments based on evolving needs. Additionally, a high-level committee comprising Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner, officials from other civic bodies, and power department experts will be formed to establish standardized maintenance protocols, inspection frequencies, technical guidelines, and responsibilities for lift manufacturers.
This committee is tasked with delivering a new operational framework within six months, marking a proactive step towards safer high-rise living. In a related development, Fadnavis also tackled issues with private moneylenders and microfinance, distinguishing between licensed and illegal operators. He assured citizens that loans from unlicensed lenders are unlawful, encouraging complaints with full governmental support. For licensed entities flouting interest rate norms, stringent actions including license revocation and criminal proceedings will follow, ensuring victim relief.
These announcements underscore the Fadnavis administration’s commitment to urban infrastructure safety and financial protection, setting a benchmark for other states.