Maharashtra to Create 519 New Posts to Strengthen Lift Inspection System

Move aims to improve monitoring, safety standards and emergency response across the state

Mumbai: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday announced that the Maharashtra government will create 519 new posts to strengthen the state’s lift inspection system and ensure quicker emergency response.

Speaking during the ongoing Budget Session in the state legislature, Fadnavis said that around 2.10 lakh lifts are currently operational in Maharashtra, while another 25,000 have recently received approval. He pointed out that the present number of inspectors is not enough to monitor such a large number of elevators, making it necessary to increase manpower. However, he added that with the rapid growth in lift installations, even the additional posts may not be sufficient in the coming years.

The announcement came while responding to questions raised by MLAs Niranjan Davkhare and Sachin Ahir regarding the maintenance and safety of emergency lifts in housing societies.

The Chief Minister said the government will introduce major reforms to improve inspection efficiency. An authorised third-party inspection system will be introduced for elevators, similar to the fire safety audit model followed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

Under the proposed system, technical inspections will be compulsory. Valid inspection certificates must be displayed inside lifts, clearly mentioning inspection dates and validity details.

A new bill has also been introduced to give more powers to lift inspection authorities. Additionally, a high-level committee will be formed, including the BMC Commissioner, municipal commissioners from across the state, and officials from the electricity department. The committee will set maintenance standards, decide inspection frequency, and frame technical guidelines. A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is expected to be prepared within six months.

On another issue, Fadnavis said the government will take strict action against illegal moneylenders as well as licensed lenders who charge interest beyond prescribed limits. He assured that affected citizens will receive full legal protection and relief from the government.