Mumbai, March 5: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday that the state government will enhance the lift inspection system to ensure swift evacuation during emergencies.
Currently, approximately 210,000 lifts operate in the state, with 25,000 new lifts recently approved. Due to a shortage of staff for inspections, the government has decided to create 519 new positions. However, with the increasing number of lifts, these positions may still fall short in the future.
Fadnavis was responding to questions from members Niranjan Davkhare and Sachin Ahir regarding the maintenance and repair of emergency lifts in housing societies.
He stated that significant reforms will be implemented to make the emergency lift inspection system more effective. Similar to the recognized third-party audit system for fire safety in Mumbai, an authorized and accredited third-party system for lift inspections will also be established.
Under this system, technical inspections will be mandatory, and valid inspection certificates must be displayed inside the lifts. Additionally, lifts will clearly indicate when the last inspection occurred and the certificate’s validity period.
To empower officials involved in lift inspections, a bill has been introduced in the current budget session of the assembly. Future amendments may be made as necessary.
The Chief Minister also announced the formation of a high-level committee to establish maintenance standards, inspection frequency, technical regulations, and the responsibilities of lift manufacturing companies. This committee will include the Municipal Commissioner of Greater Mumbai, commissioners from other municipalities, and officials from the electricity department. A new standard operating procedure for lift inspections will be developed within six months.
In response to another question, the Chief Minister addressed the issue of private moneylenders and microfinance. He noted that there are two types of moneylenders in the state: licensed and illegal. Any loans provided by illegal moneylenders are unlawful. Citizens are encouraged to report such cases, and the government will support them.
He added that if licensed moneylenders charge interest rates above the prescribed limits or violate regulations, action will be taken against them. Their licenses may be revoked, and criminal cases could be filed, ensuring full relief for affected individuals.
–
Leave a Comment