The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking is gearing up to enhance accessibility for commuters of the Mumbai Metro Line 3 with the introduction of last-mile bus services.
These services will cover the remaining two phases of the underground metro corridor, spanning from Aarey to Cuffe Parade. The aim is to provide seamless connectivity for passengers, making it easier for them to access metro stations and reach their destinations. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in transforming Mumbai’s urban mobility landscape. The second phase of Metro Line 3, which connects Dharavi to Acharya Atre Chowk, will benefit from 10 new bus routes operated by BEST. A fleet of 29 buses will be deployed to connect bustling residential and commercial zones such as Lower Parel, Wadala, Mahim, Dadar, and Nehru Science Centre. The buses will follow ring routes, facilitating intra-neighbourhood travel without the need for private vehicles or rickshaws. This move is set to offer significant relief to commuters who rely on congested local roads and overcrowded public transport options.
In the final phase, which spans from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade, BEST plans to launch 17 new bus routes, further extending its network of last-mile connectivity. As part of the implementation plan, infrastructure at several metro station exits is being upgraded to include dedicated bus bays and safe pick-up areas. This development will streamline the boarding process and ensure greater safety and comfort for passengers. A key feature of the new service is the integration of real-time tracking technology. BEST has partnered with Google Maps to display live bus routes, vehicle locations, and estimated time of arrival (ETA). This feature aims to reduce waiting times, improve route planning, and ensure a more efficient and user-friendly experience for metro riders. It is particularly beneficial for areas that are less walkable or where metro stations are located some distance from major destinations.
The ring-route model, which was successfully trialled during the first phase of Metro Line 3 between Aarey and BKC in October 2023, will now be expanded. Over 50 new routes are planned to cover densely populated residential areas, corporate hubs, hospitals, and educational institutions. This strategy is expected to increase ridership on both the metro and the last-mile bus services, reducing dependence on private cars and contributing to a more sustainable urban transport system. The introduction of last-mile connectivity aligns with the city’s broader goals of promoting eco-friendly and sustainable transport options. By facilitating easier access to metro stations, these bus services will not only improve the convenience and affordability of public transport but also help reduce the city’s carbon footprint by encouraging more people to use public transit rather than private vehicles.
As Mumbai continues to grapple with its notorious traffic congestion and pollution, the expansion of Metro Line 3, coupled with the strategic deployment of BEST’s bus services, is seen as a significant step towards achieving a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable urban mobility ecosystem. The integration of these services promises to complement the ongoing push for a greener and more inclusive city, where the benefits of modern infrastructure are accessible to all, irrespective of their socio-economic background. For now, commuters eagerly await the complete rollout of these last-mile services, which are expected to significantly improve the daily commute for millions in the city. While the plan is being implemented in phases, the ultimate goal is to create a robust, seamless public transport network that connects every corner of Mumbai and fosters a more sustainable, equitable urban environment.
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