Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking is rapidly expanding its air-conditioned (AC) bus fleet to enhance commuter comfort and connectivity across the city. In a significant move, 54 new AC buses have been introduced on five key routes, with more additions expected in the coming months.
According to sources, an additional 100 buses are in the pipeline. Olectra, the electric bus supplier, has already delivered 160 buses in recent months, bringing the total to nearly 500 buses handed over to BEST.
Under its contract, Olectra is set to supply over 2,100 buses, targeting the delivery of 100 AC buses each month. If inducted into service promptly, these new buses will provide much-needed relief to Mumbai commuters, especially during the ongoing summer season.
Challenges in Deployment
Despite these efforts, reports indicate that around 120 registered buses remain parked at the Kurla and Ghatkopar depots due to changes in driver training protocols. The revised guidelines now mandate a 28-day training program at the Dindoshi Depot. Currently, 38 newly inducted drivers have begun training, while 32 others are in the process of completing their sessions.
New Routes for AC Buses
Following the recent introduction of 30 AC buses on routes A-7, A-511, and RC-53 last week, BEST has launched an additional 24 AC buses starting Tuesday, April 1. The latest additions include route A-340, which operates from Ghatkopar Station (West) to Agarkar Chowk, with 15 AC buses added. Additionally, route A-422, running from Vikhroli Depot to Bandra Bus Station (West), has received nine AC buses.
This latest phase of fleet expansion aims to enhance services in Mumbai’s northeastern suburbs and bridge service gaps caused by a dwindling fleet. A BEST official stated that these efforts are part of a broader initiative to modernize public transport in the city and improve the daily commute for Mumbaikars.
