Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking has rolled out major changes to its city bus network. From November 1, 23 routes have been revised, eight upgraded to air-conditioned (AC) services, and a new AC route launched to serve office-goers in South Mumbai.
The new route, A-101, connects the World Trade Centre at Cuffe Parade to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) via Colaba, Madame Cama Road, and Hutatma Chowk. Operated on weekdays, it aims to provide a more comfortable, sustainable commuting option for the city’s working professionals. According to officials, the restructuring of 23 existing routes covers South, Central, and Suburban Mumbai. The adjustments were designed to reduce travel congestion, extend connectivity to underserved pockets, and improve operational efficiency across the city’s bus corridors.
Among the major revisions, Route A-1 now begins from CSMT instead of Electric House and terminates at Santacruz Depot, while A-30 stretches further east to link Opera House with Vikhroli Depot. The former A-60, now renumbered A-458, connects Deonar Depot to Borivali (East), offering a longer cross-city corridor. Routes such as A-69, A-78, and A-171 have been modified to better synchronise with other transport nodes, while new extensions in Andheri and Chembur improve access for residential commuters. Eight older routes — including A-207 (Malvani Depot–Dahisar) and A-211 (Bandra West–Father Agnel) — have transitioned into fully air-conditioned services. These upgrades are part of BEST’s broader plan to increase passenger satisfaction, reduce dependency on private vehicles, and encourage more citizens to adopt public transport.
Transport experts note that the expansion of AC routes is a significant step towards creating equitable and climate-conscious mobility in Mumbai. By offering cleaner, energy-efficient buses with enhanced comfort, BEST hopes to attract office-goers who currently rely on cars or taxis for short-distance travel. However, some commuters have expressed concern about route curtailments and longer distances to new stops. Officials have clarified that the changes are being monitored and adjustments will be made based on commuter feedback and ridership data.
As Mumbai transitions towards a more integrated and sustainable transport model, BEST’s ongoing modernisation efforts — from route optimisation to electrification of its fleet — are expected to play a pivotal role in reducing emissions and improving last-mile connectivity across the metropolis.
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