Mumbai: As local trains, metro, monorail, and buses are being brought under a single mobility platform in Mumbai, the decision is going to benefit the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) as well. This will allow citizens to travel using one ticket for all modes of public transport.
On Friday, a review meeting on BEST transport was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stressing upon to increase BEST’s revenue, as the organisation is currently running at a loss. To reduce the financial burden on BEST, the BMC provides financial support every year. During the meeting, it was suggested that if 3% of BMC’s budget is reserved for transport, it could benefit BEST significantly.
BEST General Manager Srinivas requested toll exemptions, clearance of Rs 1,658 crore dues for employee payments, and exemption from government taxes. The CM responded positively and asked for proposals to be submitted so that the government can consider them favourably. Due to hawkers, roads are becoming narrow.
To ensure citizen convenience, it is important to plan routes connecting metro stations and BEST buses. In this regard, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde suggested preparing a proposal for small, modern buses during the meeting. There was also a discussion about increasing revenue by utilising BEST-owned land in various parts of Mumbai. It was suggested that while redeveloping the Bandra, Dindoshi, and Deonar bus depots, a policy should be formed for leasing out space. If these redeveloped spaces include commercial shops, residential units, and BEST bus depots, it could help increase BEST’s income.
Suggestion Given By Minister Ashish Shelar
Minister Ashish Shelar suggested including entertainment centers as part of the bus depot redevelopment. The CM also mentioned that building Marathi cinema theaters at five locations could boost local films and help generate additional revenue. It was announced that 2,100 air-conditioned buses have been purchased for Mumbai, with 503 buses already received, and an additional 2,400 buses will be ordered. Currently, BEST has 2,783 buses, including 875 electric buses. During the meeting, officials mentioned that, based on the population, there is a need for 7,000 buses.
