Incase of accident due to malfunction in a lift one can be jailed and fined
News Media: Gomantak Times, 20th February, 2025
Sadetod Nayak: Safety in lifts in Goa are ignored
The use of lifts in buildings is increasing, but safety measures are often overlooked. Experts on the Sadetod Nayak program, featured in Gomantak Times, warned that in the event of an accident or fatality, building owners could face three months in jail or a fine of ₹1 lakh.
Ex CEO of Schindler, a Swiss based Elevator company. And now an independent VT Consultant and Auditor, Mr. Uday Kulkarni, Ex Chief Engineer of Indian Hotels, Mr. Jerome Lobo, and Retired Executive Engineer of PWD, Goa, Mr. Vivek Sardesai were in conversation with Editor in Chief of Gomantak Times Mr. Raju Nayak.
Currently, there are no mandatory lift regulations in place in the state of Goa, due to which it is recommended by the experts that the lifts be audited at least once a year if not in six months. Many a time’s these rules are bypassed, due to which the societies can be fined.
If the lifts are not maintained properly, they can be unsafe.
Due to the unavailability of spare parts, lifts often remain out of service for days, causing inconvenience to residents. Apartment buyers tend to focus only on interiors, overlooking safety measures outside their homes. They must consider the facilities and safety standards provided by the builder. This was stated by Mr. Uday Kulkarni.
Though there is no lift rule in state of Goa, it is the responsibility of the chairman and secretary in case of an accident. Therefore, it is recommended that the lifts are audited by a third party auditor atleast once in a year if not six months – Mr. Uday Kulkarni, Ex CEO Schindler, India
In 2012, lift regulations were planned but never implemented. Vivek Sardesai, retired Executive Engineer, PWD, Goa, emphasized that it is the responsibility of society management committees to ensure lift safety. He urged them to take the initiative and get lifts audited regularly.
The central agencies of Government of India like Bureau of Indian Standards and National Building Code have made guidelines. “If the rules are not followed then the concerned persons can be jailed for 3 months or fine of Rs. One lakh will be charged - Jerome lobo, Ex Chief Engineer, Indian Hotels.
