There are currently 75 lifts in service at Biguiyuan Community, with 39 more expected to be put into operation before the end of the month. [Photo/thehour.cn]

The installed lifts were a response to the aging population in old residential communities in Hangzhou. The costs of buying the lift and further maintenance were all covered by the lift company, aiming to give the most convenience to local residents.

"Most of the people living in these old communities are former blue and white collar workers. They don't have much money and we also don't want to put extra burden on them," said Du Weidong, head of the nearby Maxi sub-district.

The lift shaft is also installed a few meters away from the residential building, aiming to minimize the loss of sunshine for low-rise homes. Corridors with closed windows connect the lift with the building, ensuring the normal use of the lift in bad weather conditions.