Kochi: The Kerala High Court has ordered the suspension of unauthorised vacuum lifts operating without the required safety and technical approvals, following a petition filed by the Kerala Elevator Manufacturers Association (KEMA).

The order came after KEMA approached the court, alleging that the Electrical Inspectorate had failed to implement a 2024 High Court directive to inspect such lifts and take action against those operating without approval.

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Addressing a press conference in Kochi after the verdict, KEMA office-bearers said the ruling underscored the need for greater public awareness about the safety risks associated with unauthorised vacuum lifts.

KEMA President Narayana Menon and Secretary C.B. Sreekumar alleged that vacuum lifts currently being marketed in the state do not comply with the technical and safety regulations applicable to lifts in India. They claimed that these lifts lack auxiliary systems required to handle emergencies and do not meet prescribed standards relating to pit depth, overhead clearance and landings.

According to the association, the lifts are being operated without approvals from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or the Electrical Inspectorate, the authority responsible for issuing licences for lift operations.

The association further alleged that companies promoting these lifts have been misleading consumers through social media while bypassing mainstream advertising channels. It claimed that technical failures involving vacuum lifts had occurred in the past, but that such incidents were not being adequately reported because the lifts lacked legal recognition and regulatory oversight.

KEMA also alleged that a Chennai-based company is involved in the manufacture and sale of these lifts. It said demonstration models had previously been installed and operated in shopping malls in Kerala without permission as part of promotional campaigns, but were removed following legal intervention. However, the association claimed that online promotions and sales continue.

Following the 2024 High Court order, the Electrical Inspectorate had issued a general advisory directing compliance with safety standards. However, KEMA alleged that the department failed to conduct inspections or initiate enforcement action against establishments operating unauthorised vacuum lifts.

The association further claimed that the company continues to operate an office in Kochi despite the court's directions.

Under existing laws, KEMA said, all passenger lifts carrying people to a height of more than 1.5 metres require a valid operating licence and must provide insurance cover for passengers. Since unauthorised vacuum lifts do not possess the necessary approvals, they typically do not have insurance coverage, leaving passengers without legal protection in the event of an accident.

KEMA urged the Electrical Inspectorate to take immediate steps to stop the operation of unauthorised vacuum lifts, arguing that they pose a serious risk to public safety.

KEMA represents 26 lift and elevator manufacturers operating across Kerala.