Mumbai’s Transport Department Faces Mismanagement, Accidents, and Financial Deficit
MUMBAI: In the wake of a serious accident involving a BEST bus in Kurla, the mismanagement of Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) transport department has come under intense scrutiny. The BEST Kamgar Sena, a prominent trade union representing workers, has urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene and resolve the ongoing issues facing the public transport system.
On December 16, 2024, Trade Union representatives met BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani to highlight the increasing financial deficits, the dwindling number of buses, and rising accidents. The delegation included prominent figures like BEST Kamgar Sena President Suhas Samant and former corporator Anil Kokiel. Their demands were clear: halt the privatization of BEST services, end the reliance on leased buses, and significantly increase the fleet of buses owned by BEST.
Despite these urgent requests, the meeting ended without assurances from the BMC Commissioner. Anil Kokiel, speaking to the media, expressed frustration, stating that the commissioner refused to take responsibility for the deteriorating condition of BEST’s services. Kokiel pointed out that the decision to lease buses, signed by former Municipal Commissioner Praveen Pardeshi, had exacerbated the situation.
The issue has also sparked political controversy. BJP representatives recently met with BEST General Manager Anil Diggikar, demanding an inquiry into the Kurla bus accident. At the same time, Shiv Sena (Thackeray) members, including the Pranit Kamgar Sena, joined the protests, reiterating demands for a stop to leased bus services and for an expansion of BEST’s own fleet.
The growing public dissatisfaction and the mounting political pressure have made it clear that immediate action is needed to address the mismanagement and financial challenges facing BEST. The unions are hopeful that CM Fadnavis will step in to mediate a resolution that safeguards the future of Mumbai’s transport system.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
