Death of Official in India Shines Spotlight on Lift Safety Standards

The March 10 death of a former chief security officer of the Telangana Secretariat as the result of injuries he sustained when an elevator at an apartment complex in Siricilla, Telangana, India, “fell from height” has sparked concerns over lift safety standards in high-rise buildings, outlets including Munsif News report. Former Chief Security Officer Gangaram was riding the elevator after visiting a friend when it collapsed mid-descent, with Gangaram succumbing to severe chest injuries “on the spot.” Gangaram was well-respected, with a career marked by dedication and a commitment to public service. Investigators are now looking at the elevator’s mechanical system, maintenance records and operational history to determine a possible cause. The official’s untimely death sparked a statewide debate on elevator safety standards, with experts and civic authorities considering reforms such as mandatory elevator inspections, installation of advanced safety mechanisms, strict penalties for negligence and awareness campaigns.