October 9, 2025 5:38 pm

TK Elevator India

Mr. Manish Mehan – MD and CEO,
TK Elevator India

What opportunities and challenges does the BIS code (IS 17900 Part 1 & Part 2) pose for the VT industry, and how might industry size and state-wise implementation impact the rollout?
The implementation of BIS code IS 17900 (Parts 1 & 2) in India’s vertical transportation (VT) industry presents key opportunities and notable challenges. On the positive side, the code aligns Indian lift and escalator systems with international safety standards, enhancing public safety and boosting consumer confidence. It promotes local innovation, supports the “Make in India” initiative, and positions Indian manufacturers for greater global competitiveness. With growing urbanization and infrastructure development, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the potential for standardized, safe VT systems is significant.

However, challenges stem from India’s fragmented regulatory landscape. Only a few states have adopted IS 17900, and even fewer actively implement it. Many states lack clear or updated VT regulations, leading to inconsistent safety practices and low awareness among stakeholders. The scale of the industry adds complexity, as uniform compliance across diverse regions is difficult. As a result, states with better infrastructure and enforcement may progress faster, while others fall behind.

In short, while IS 17900 can transform the VT industry, its success depends on wider state-level adoption, consistent enforcement, and coordinated efforts across industry and government.

How will the new BIS code impact leading VT players such as TK Elevator India, and what steps has the company taken to adapt to the transition and required upgrades?
TK Elevator is pleased to be early adopters of IS 17900. At TK Elevator, many features mandated by IS 17900 are already integrated into our product designs. Our engineering and service teams are fully aligned with the new requirements, ensuring seamless compliance. We are ready to guide our customers confidently through this important change, delivering safety, innovation, and reliability every step of the way.

Since VT customers (developers, project managers) differ from end users (occupants, travellers), how crucial is it to highlight the link between BIS code compliance, pricing, and safety to customers?
In the vertical transportation (VT) industry, the distinction between customers-mainly real estate developers and infrastructure project managers-and end users-such as buyers, occupants, visitors, and travelers-makes communication about BIS code adherence especially important. It is crucial to help customers fully understand how compliance with the BIS code IS 17900 impacts the cost structure of VT systems.

Adhering to these standards often involves higher upfront investment due to enhanced safety features, better materials, advanced technologies, and rigorous testing protocols. Without this clarity, customers might perceive price increases as unnecessary or avoidable costs, potentially leading to pressure on manufacturers to cut corners or settle for lower-quality products.

Equally important is educating customers about why these costs are essential from a safety perspective. The BIS codes are designed to protect lives by ensuring elevators, escalators, and moving walks meet minimum safety and operational benchmarks—especially during emergencies like power failures, fire incidents, or mechanical faults. By understanding that these standards reduce risks of accidents, injuries, and legal liabilities, developers and project managers are better equipped to prioritize compliance in their procurement decisions.

This, in turn, ensures end users benefit from safer, more reliable vertical transportation systems, which enhances the overall value and reputation of a real estate or infrastructure project. Therefore, clear communication bridging the gap between customers’ cost concerns and the critical importance of safety compliance is vital for widespread acceptance and effective implementation of the BIS code in the VT industry.

What further measures should states across the country take to ensure the effective implementation of the BIS code and, in turn, strengthen the emphasis on safety?
To ensure successful implementation of the BIS code IS 17900 across India and strengthen safety in vertical transportation, states need to take several coordinated actions. First, they should formally adopt the BIS code into their local regulations and update their Lift and Escalator Acts to make compliance mandatory. Clear, uniform rules across states will reduce confusion and improve enforcement. Second, states must build capabilities by training inspectors, engineers, and installers on the new standards to ensure proper under-standing and application.

Third, establishing dedicated regulatory bodies or strengthening existing authorities to monitor compliance, conduct regular safety audits, and impose penalties for violations is essential. Fourth, creating awareness campaigns targeting developers, manufacturers, and end users will help communicate the importance of safety and regulatory adherence. Finally, investing in infrastructure such as certified testing facilities and encouraging technology adoption can support manufacturers and service providers in meeting the code requirements. Together, these steps will create a robust ecosystem that prioritizes safety and drives consistent implementation of BIS standards nationwide.

To prevent state-wise delays in adopting the BIS code, a Pan-India Lift Act could ensure uniformity. How should the VT industry unite to push this idea forward and showcase its advantages?
To advocate effectively for a common Pan-India Lift Act, the vertical transportation (VT) industry should adopt a unified, clear, and solution-oriented communication strategy highlighting the benefits of uniformity and streamlined implementation. Industry bodies, manufacturers, and service providers can collaborate to develop a strong consensus and present a collective voice to policymakers.
The message should emphasize how a single national framework would eliminate the current patchwork of state regulations, reducing confusion and compliance costs for manufacturers and developers operating across multiple states. This uniformity would accelerate the adoption of BIS codes like IS 17900, ensuring consistent safety standards nationwide and protecting end users regardless of location. Additionally, a Pan-India Act would simplify enforcement, enabling centralized training, inspections, and certifications, which could improve regulatory efficiency and reduce delays.

The industry can also point out that such harmonization supports faster infrastructure development, promotes investment, and boosts India’s global competitiveness by creating a predictable regulatory environment. By framing the common Lift Act as a win-win for safety, business growth, and consumer confidence, the VT industry can make a compelling case to regula-tors, lawmakers, and stakeholders, encouraging collaborative efforts toward this unified approach. Organizing joint workshops, publishing whitepapers, and engaging with government task forces would help build momentum and visibility for the initiative.

TK Elevator India
Web : www.tkelevator.com/in-en/

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