Chalo, the app-based luxury AC bus service operating in Mumbai under BEST’s license, has witnessed a substantial 50% increase in ridership over the past three months. This surge has propelled the service to an average daily ridership of 10,000 commuters on typical weekdays.
Responding to this heightened demand, Chalo announced on Wednesday a significant expansion of its fleet by 44%, bringing the total number of buses in operation to 144. The expansion aims to cater to increased ridership across popular routes, including Belapur-Colaba via MTHL, Thane-Andheri, Thane-BKC, and Navi Mumbai-BKC. Particularly noteworthy is the surge in popularity along the Belapur-Colaba route, prompting Chalo to augment trips by 50% to accommodate commuter preferences. However, frequent flyers have expressed disappointment over the recent discontinuation of bus services from airports. A regular traveller lamented, “I used to rely on Chalo’s AC buses outside the airport, which provided comfortable and affordable transport to Kharghar. The abrupt halt of these services from T2 to south Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, western suburbs, and Thane has been inconvenient.” In response to queries about the cessation of airport services, a Chalo spokesperson indicated ongoing discussions with BEST and hinted at the likelihood of resuming these services soon, without divulging specific reasons for their suspension.
Recent data highlights Chalo’s 45-trip plan as the most favoured choice among commuters, closely followed by the 25-trip option. Additionally, Chalo has introduced route-specific passes based on public demand, underscoring its commitment to enhancing customer convenience and affordability. “We are delighted by the burgeoning demand for Chalo’s bus services in Mumbai,” Said official Chalo. “With our expanded fleet and new travel plans, including all-day and weekend routes, Chalo remains dedicated to providing seamless and economical public transport solutions across the city,” he affirmed. As Chalo continues to evolve its service offerings to meet the dynamic needs of Mumbai’s commuters, the focus remains on delivering reliable and efficient transportation options amidst the city’s bustling urban landscape.
