The tragic death of veteran dermatologist Dr Marcia D'Souza in an elevator mishap at a residential complex in Colva has sent shockwaves across Goa and raised disturbing questions about the safety of elevators used daily by thousands of citizens. Preliminary reports suggest that the lift gate could be opened even though the elevator cabin had not reached floor level. When she stepped in, the elevator reportedly descended, trapping her in the shaft area and causing fatal injuries. This incident is a warning about the hidden dangers that may exist in many residential and commercial buildings where elevators are poorly maintained, outdated or operating without adequate safety mechanisms. This is all the more true in government buildings in the State. Modern elevators are designed with multiple safety features precisely to prevent such tragedies. One of the most critical systems is the door interlock mechanism. Under normal circumstances, the landing door should never open unless the elevator cabin is properly aligned with the floor. The larger question is who should be held responsible for such a mishap. The building owner or housing society has a legal and moral obligation to ensure that elevators installed on the premises are regularly inspected, certified and maintained in safe working condition. At the same time, the elevator company responsible for installation and maintenance cannot escape scrutiny. If routine servicing was neglected, if defective parts were not replaced, or if safety audits were not conducted periodically, then the maintenance contractor too bears responsibility. Incidentally, elevator safety enforcement appears to be weak despite the growing number of high-rise buildings and ageing elevators continuing to operate long after their safe lifespan. All elevators should mandatorily have a back-up power supply so that the lift does not stop operating while in motion due to power supply failure. The death of Dr Marcia D’Souza should become a turning point that compels authorities, builders, housing societies and elevator companies to place human life above cost-cutting and complacency. Only then can citizens step into elevators with the confidence that they are truly safe.
