October 30, 2025: Even as Mumbai added 150 new electric buses this week, concerns over the city’s dwindling public transport network continue to rise. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking’s fleet now stands at 2,759 buses — a 15-year low — prompting urban mobility experts and citizens’ groups to warn that Mumbai’s public transport backbone is being eroded when sustainable mobility should be the focus.
Despite plans to induct another 100 buses by year-end, nearly 300 existing vehicles are nearing retirement, raising fears that the total fleet will remain under 3,000. Citizen groups have strongly opposed BEST’s move to redevelop bus depots for commercial use, arguing that the civic body is prioritising real estate over reliable transport. They have demanded that all depot land remain reserved for transport operations and criticised redevelopment plans presented as “non-fare revenue generation.”
Many activists claim that fare hikes in recent years have not improved services. Several low-income neighbourhoods reportedly face long wait times, reduced routes, and overcrowded conditions. “The civic transport body should not transform its operational spaces into commercial estates at the expense of public service,” said one commuter representative.
Activists have petitioned BEST to restore its fleet to 6,250 buses — the benchmark of one bus per 2,000 residents — to ensure equitable access across the city.
BEST officials maintain that the transition to an all-electric fleet remains a top priority. The undertaking aims to be fully electric by 2026–27, with enhanced last-mile connectivity to Metro and railway stations. Officials also noted that delays in bus deliveries could invite legal action against suppliers.
On non-fare revenue, BEST stated that a formal policy is being drafted for state approval. However, transport experts caution that financial sustainability should not compromise public welfare.
Source: Urban Acres
