Amid growing concerns over the dwindling fleet of Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) buses, a city-wide signature drive under the “BEST Bachao” campaign will kick off on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. The campaign, led by union leader Shashank Rao, aims to rally citizens to protect and enhance Mumbai’s public bus service, which is considered a lifeline for millions of commuters.
The recent tragic bus accident in Kurla on December 9, 2024, which claimed several lives and injured many, has amplified the urgency of the situation. Critics link the increasing reliance on private contractors for bus operations to declining safety standards.The campaign invites participation from commuter associations, NGOs, social activists, housing societies, and organizations working for the welfare of Mumbaikars.
Citizens interested in joining the initiative can contact the helpline at 9867773339 for more details.According to Shashank Rao, signature drives will be conducted at strategic locations such as railway stations and bus terminals across Mumbai. The collected signatures will be submitted to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging immediate action to secure the future of BEST services.
Additionally, street plays and public awareness activities will highlight the critical issues faced by the service and its impact on citizens.The campaign, which began in July 2024, emphasizes the need for BEST to maintain a fleet of at least 3,337 buses under its direct ownership. Shashank Rao is demanding that new buses be purchased and operated exclusively by BEST, rather than through private contractors under wet lease agreements.BEST, which has served Mumbai with uninterrupted public transport for over 77 years, is facing a severe fleet shortage due to financial constraints.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has not allocated funds for new bus purchases since 2019, resulting in a significant reduction in the fleet.According to Shashank Rao, only 998 BEST-owned buses are operational, with numbers expected to drop to 761 by March 31, 2025, and 251 (8%) by November 30, 2025.
The “BEST Bachao” campaign aims to ensure safe, reliable and affordable transport, strengthen regulations and prioritize passenger safety. With Mumbai’s growing population and dependence on public transport, the campaign seeks immediate attention to the crisis and long-term solutions to safeguard BEST’s legacy.
