It is learnt that visitors to the excise office in Mapusa have been having a gruelling experience as the two lifts are not functional for the past two years. People have been forced to climb a hundred steps to reach the excise office located on the fifth floor of the building. Be that as it may, many a times it is observed that in buildings that house government offices the elevators are either missing or are non-functional due to non-maintenance or power failure. Elevators provide a reliable way for the elderly people and those with mobility challenges. It could be a matter of life and death for a person with a heart condition. Accessibility is a fundamental right, not a privilege. In emergencies like fires or natural disasters, elevators ensure a swift and secure evacuation. It is equally essential for the elevators to have provisions for stand-by power supply in case of power failure. There have been instances wherein the lift has stopped mid-way between two floors due to power failure. Elevators in government buildings need to be functional during working hours.
