Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) has announced a significant revamp of its bus services across Mumbai.
The overhaul includes the introduction of new air-conditioned (AC) bus routes, modifications to existing ones, and updated schedules aimed at improving operational efficiency and sustainability. This development aligns with Mumbai’s broader goals to foster eco-friendly and equitable urban mobility by encouraging public transport usage and reducing carbon emissions. The expansion of AC bus services represents a key step in attracting more commuters away from private vehicles, thereby contributing to the city’s green transport vision.
Among the notable introductions is AC route A-175, connecting Pratiksha Nagar Depot to Prabodhankar Thackeray Udyan (Dadar – Portuguese Church), traversing areas such as Antop Hill and Wadala Church. In addition, the new A-490 route links Mantralaya to Dadlani Park in Thane West via the Eastern Freeway and Expressway, focusing on peak-hour travel needs. Several existing routes have been upgraded to AC services, including the transition of Route 44 to A-44 (Kalachowki to Worli), Route 125 to A-125 (rerouted via Mohammad Ali Road), and Route 343 to A-343 (Goregaon to Chitranagari through Santosh Nagar). These enhancements are designed to offer improved comfort and reliability for daily commuters.
In conjunction with new routes, schedule revisions aim to better serve the city’s diverse travel demands. For example, AC route A-8, operating between Mantralaya and Shivaji Nagar Terminus, now runs from 8:05 AM to 10:50 PM on the Mantralaya end, and from 6:50 AM to 9:15 PM from Shivaji Nagar. Such adjustments provide greater flexibility and convenience for passengers. Operational efficiencies have also been achieved by merging and diverting certain routes. Route 25 has been merged into Route 29 for streamlined coverage, while Route 11 has been rerouted to bypass congested areas like Rani Baug and Lalbaug, instead travelling via the Sant Dnyaneshwar Flyover in Lalbaug. Officials from BEST emphasise that these changes are an integral part of their commitment to sustainable urban transport. By expanding quality AC services and refining route management, the public transport body seeks to reduce traffic congestion and lower the city’s overall carbon footprint. This initiative aligns with Mumbai’s vision of becoming a sustainable, equitable metropolis that prioritises commuter wellbeing.
Commuters are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the revised routes and schedules, accessible via BEST’s official platforms, to make the most of these service enhancements. The transport authority will continue monitoring commuter feedback and operational outcomes to ensure the system evolves in line with the city’s dynamic needs. This comprehensive revamp marks a crucial milestone for Mumbai’s public transport landscape, reflecting a broader shift towards more eco-friendly, comfortable, and efficient mobility solutions that serve all citizens equitably.
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