To strengthen public safety, accountability, and regulatory compliance, the Himachal Pradesh government will now strictly enforce the Lift Safety Norms in both public and private buildings. This includes mandatory registration, approval, and licensing for all lift installations, as per the Himachal Pradesh Lift Act, 2009.
Sharing this information, Public Works Secretary Abhishekh Jain stated that the Act requires lift owners to seek permission within one month of installation and obtain a valid operating license. Until recently, awareness of the Act remained low, with only 1,000 registered lifts recorded by August 2024. That number has now risen to 1,900, indicating growing compliance.
In line with CM Sukhu’s direction, an online portal has been developed for streamlined registration, approval, and license renewal. Citizens can apply via edistrict.hp.gov.in and access the citizen portal for submissions. The digital system also includes online fee payments and automated reminders for renewals.
To prioritize safety, regular lift inspections have been mandated. Over 3,500 inspections were conducted till June 2025, a significant increase from just 750 the previous year. The Act also requires that all lifts display their registration and license visibly.
Jain emphasized the importance of this initiative not just for safety but also for the tourism-driven economy of Himachal Pradesh, asserting that secure infrastructure increases visitor confidence. As of now, approximately 3,500 lifts are operational in government offices, hotels, and private establishments across the state.
Out of an estimated 2,500 unregistered lifts as of August 2024, 1,000 have since been registered, and notices have been issued to remaining violators. The campaign has also boosted revenue significantly: in just four months (Feb–June 2025), the department collected ₹5.58 lakh, nearly matching the ₹7.5 lakh collected over the previous 16 years.
The success is credited to a five-member electrical wing team of the PWD, who not only developed the online system but also improved inspection, compliance, and digital tracking of lift operations. These efforts have resulted in a reduction in lift-related accidents, enhanced public trust, and transparent governance.
Secretary Jain urged all those installing or operating lifts without proper registration or license to comply immediately with the legal provisions under the Himachal Pradesh Lift Act.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
