Telangana High Court Urges State to Expedite Lift Safety Legislation
The Telangana High Court has taken a firm stance on the urgent need for enhanced elevator safety regulations across the state. On Wednesday, the court pressed the state government to clarify the timeline required to enact a comprehensive law governing lifts and elevators. This directive comes in response to growing public alarm over a series of fatal accidents involving elevators, which have claimed multiple lives in recent years.
Judicial Scrutiny Over Delayed Legislation
Hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated by advocate Barkat Ali Khan, a bench comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice GM Mohiuddin expressed deep concern. The bench noted that since the PIL was admitted in 2025, several deaths due to lift accidents have been reported, underscoring the critical need for immediate action.
During the proceedings, state counsel informed the court that a draft bill had already been submitted to the government and was under active consideration. The counsel sought six months to enact the legislation, citing the complexities involved in the legislative process.
Court's Directive and Timeline Concerns
However, the bench expressed reservations about this extended timeline. Observing that the state assembly meets only once every two to three months, the court directed the state to file a detailed report within four weeks. This report must outline the current status of the revised Telangana Lifts Act, 2025, and specify the exact stage at which it is pending.
The matter has been posted for further hearing after four weeks, indicating the court's intent to monitor progress closely and ensure accountability.
Advocate's Submissions and Safety Guidelines
Advocate Barkat Ali Khan, appearing in person, provided compelling testimony to the court. He detailed his visits to victims' families and various industrial establishments, where he identified multiple lapses in lift safety measures. These findings highlight systemic failures that contribute to the ongoing risk of accidents.
In compliance with the court's earlier directions, Ali Khan had prepared a draft containing proposed safety guidelines and submitted it in January. Recording his submissions, the bench directed the authorities to examine whether these proposed guidelines could be implemented through executive instructions. This interim measure is intended to enhance safety until the revised Telangana Lifts Act comes into force, potentially saving lives in the interim.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
The case underscores a significant public safety issue in Telangana, particularly in urban centers like Hyderabad where elevator usage is widespread. The court's intervention reflects a proactive approach to judicial oversight, aiming to bridge gaps in regulatory frameworks that have led to preventable tragedies.
As the state government prepares its report, stakeholders, including industry players and safety advocates, will be watching closely. The outcome of this legal proceeding could set a precedent for how other states address similar safety concerns, emphasizing the importance of timely legislative action in protecting citizens.
The adjournment of the case marks a temporary pause, but the court's clear directives signal an unwavering commitment to ensuring that lift safety is prioritized. With lives at stake, the next four weeks will be crucial in determining whether the state can accelerate its efforts to enact robust safety laws.
