Short Answer

Yes, as per the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 and Rules, the society is responsible for fixing common amenities like lifts or pumps from maintenance funds.

Detailed Explanation

Section 64 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 empowers the society to maintain and repair common amenities like lifts and pumps. This means that when such facilities break down, it is the society's duty to get them fixed using the maintenance funds collected from members. The Act mandates that societies must ensure the proper functioning of essential utilities to provide a comfortable living environment for all members.

Rule 73 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 further elaborates on the maintenance fund and its utilization. It states that the society should allocate a portion of the maintenance charges towards a maintenance fund specifically for repairs and maintenance of common facilities. Therefore, when a lift or pump breaks down, the society should utilize this fund to cover the repair costs promptly.

In practice, when a lift or pump malfunctions, the society's managing committee should promptly assess the issue, obtain repair quotes, and authorize the necessary repairs using the maintenance fund. Delay in fixing such essential amenities can lead to inconvenience and discomfort for residents, affecting the overall living standards within the society.

Practical Examples

• Scenario 1: In a cooperative housing society, the lift stops working due to a technical fault. The managing committee immediately contacts the maintenance service provider and uses the maintenance fund to cover the repair expenses, ensuring quick restoration of lift services for all residents.

• Scenario 2: A pump supplying water to all apartments in a cooperative society fails. The society's committee swiftly arranges for a repair service, utilizing the maintenance fund collected from members to ensure uninterrupted water supply to all households.

References

• Section 64 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: [Official PDF]

• Rule 73 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: [Official PDF]