Five-Member Safety Committee Formed to Ensure Lift and Escalator Safety in Gautam Budh Nagar
In response to rising safety concerns regarding lifts and escalators in high-rise buildings, Gautam Budh Nagar has established a five-member Safety Committee aimed at monitoring and reviewing the safety and functionality of these crucial installations. Chaired by the District Magistrate, Manish Kumar Verma, the committee includes key officials such as the Vice-Chairman of the Development Authority, the Additional District Magistrate (Finance & Revenue), the Municipal Commissioner/Executive Officer, the Executive Engineer from the Public Works Department, and the Assistant Director of Electrical Safety. This committee is expected to play a vital role in ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the region.
The formation of this committee comes as a direct response to the implementation of the Uttar Pradesh Lift and Escalator Rules, 2024, which took effect on September 25, 2024. These new regulations mandate that all operators must register their lifts and escalators, maintain detailed logbooks, and conduct annual maintenance. This move aims to prevent accidents and ensure a systematic approach to managing safety standards.
In light of previous incidents and the growing demand for safety oversight, the committee is tasked with several key responsibilities. They will convene quarterly to review incidents and address ongoing safety concerns. If an accident occurs, the committee will coordinate a joint investigation led by an Electrical Inspector and an Executive Magistrate. This investigation will be critical in determining the cause of the accident and identifying any negligence in maintenance or safety protocols. A comprehensive report of the findings will be submitted to the District Magistrate, ensuring accountability and transparency in addressing safety issues.
The emphasis on accountability is further reinforced by a recent government order issued by Principal Secretary Narendra Bhooshan. The order highlights the necessity of maintaining registration and conducting regular maintenance checks on lifts and escalators to mitigate the risk of accidents. Officials are keen to stress that neglecting these responsibilities will not be tolerated, and swift action will be taken against any operator who fails to comply with the regulations.
Residents and local organizations have expressed support for the establishment of this Safety Committee. The president of the District Residents Welfare Association (DDRWA) acknowledged the positive step towards enhancing safety standards. However, he suggested that including representatives from residents’ associations in Noida and Greater Noida would provide valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by residents. Their involvement could help tailor safety measures to better address community concerns.
The proactive measures outlined by the committee reflect a broader commitment to public safety and the well-being of residents in Gautam Budh Nagar. The formation of this committee represents a significant step forward in enhancing oversight and accountability in the operation of lifts and escalators. By addressing safety issues and ensuring compliance with the new rules, the committee aims to create a safer environment for all building occupants and visitors.
The committee's primary responsibilities include overseeing maintenance protocols, ensuring adherence to safety standards, and taking immediate action in the event of accidents. One notable requirement under the new regulations is the maintenance of an accident logbook, which operators must keep readily available for inspection by the Assistant Director of Electrical Safety or other authorized officials. This logbook will serve as an essential tool in monitoring safety compliance and identifying patterns that may indicate areas of concern.
The District Magistrate, Manish Kumar Verma, expressed the committee's commitment to prioritizing safety in Gautam Budh Nagar. He emphasized that the committee would ensure strict compliance with the newly enacted rules and that any negligence in maintenance or safety standards would lead to prompt and decisive action. This proactive stance is crucial in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among lift and escalator operators.
As the Safety Committee begins its work, residents can expect increased scrutiny of lift and escalator operations in high-rise buildings across Gautam Budh Nagar. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of safety measures in urban living, particularly in areas with a high concentration of high-rise structures.
