Mumbai, Maharashtra: The city’s public transportation system is facing a severe crisis as the number of operational BEST buses continues to dwindle, leading to longer wait times and increased frustration for commuters. With a fleet of less than 3,000 buses, BEST is struggling to meet the demands of 3.5 million daily passengers.
The situation has been exacerbated by the withdrawal of 280 wet lease buses from service on October 12, further reducing the number of available buses. Despite placing orders for over 5,000 new buses, the actual deliveries have fallen significantly short, leaving the fleet stagnant. The shortage of buses is primarily due to a limited number of companies capable of supplying electric buses, which are in high demand from various public sector transport corporations. The slow supply rates have hampered BEST’s plans to expand its fleet to 5,000 buses by the end of the 2023-2024 financial year.
Commuters are bearing the brunt of the reduced bus services, facing longer wait times and delays on various routes. Some routes, particularly in areas like Bandra-Kurla, have reported wait times of up to 30 minutes. Residents from Sakinaka have also expressed concerns about the inadequate number of buses and urged the administration to improve planning and procurement. The impact of the reduced bus fleet is particularly severe for commuters on route No. 111, which runs from Free Press House to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). Regular passengers report wait times of 15 to 20 minutes, often leading to delays that cause them to miss local trains.
While BEST officials have attributed the delays to traffic congestion, transport experts argue that the shrinking bus fleet is the primary cause of the problem. With fewer buses available, commuters have limited options, increasing pressure on existing infrastructure. The ongoing crisis in Mumbai’s public transportation system highlights the urgent need for the administration to address the shortage of buses and improve the efficiency of the system. By expediting the procurement of new buses and implementing effective traffic management strategies, the city can alleviate the hardships faced by commuters and ensure a more reliable and efficient public transportation service.
