“Lucknow: The Lift and Escalator Bill 2024 has been unanimously passed in both houses of the Uttar Pradesh legislature. The bill includes provisions for the registration, maintenance, and immediate notification to relevant authorities during incidents related to lifts and escalators. It extends to all private and public buildings and premises in Uttar Pradesh. While some exemptions are granted for lifts in private use, regulations for registration, maintenance, and compensation for victims during incidents are specified for lifts and escalators used publicly.
Minister of Urban Development and Energy, A.K. Sharma, clarified that the provisions of this law will not apply to lifts and escalators in industrial areas or premises under the Factories Act of 1948. However, all private and public buildings and premises with lifts and escalators in the rest of the state will be subject to the regulations outlined in the bill. Sharma, presenting the bill in the legislative assembly, highlighted the absence of any legislation governing lifts and escalators in Uttar Pradesh until now, unlike states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal, Haryana, Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh.
The initiative gained momentum following an incident in Noida, brought to the attention of the assembly by members Yogendra Singh and Pankaj Singh. The increasing urbanization and development in the state have led to the construction of multi-story buildings and commercial establishments, contributing to the growing demand for lifts and escalators. The use of lifts and escalators has also seen a rise at railway stations and pilgrimage sites. This regulation is expected to encourage responsible operation of lifts, resulting in reduced incidents and ensuring the safety of users, including children, the elderly, and the general public.”
