Mumbai’s public transport services are set to receive a boost with the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) adding 44 air-conditioned electric buses to its fleet on Tuesday. The new vehicles are expected to improve passenger capacity and connectivity across several parts of Mumbai and neighbouring areas.
The 12-metre-long buses were formally inducted at Magathane Depot in the presence of BEST Committee Chairperson Trupti Vishwasrao and other dignitaries. They will operate on five routes originating from the depot.
Fleet Expansion Through Private Operator
The buses have been supplied by Evey Trans Maharashtra Pvt. Ltd. under a rental arrangement aimed at strengthening BEST’s public transport network. According to a Mid-day report, the company has received a purchase order to operate 2,400 fully air-conditioned, 12-metre electric buses on a rental basis.
With the latest addition of 44 vehicles, Evey Trans Maharashtra’s contribution to BEST’s fleet has risen to 94 buses.
Updated Battery Design and Passenger Safety Features
The newly introduced buses feature an improved battery configuration intended to enhance efficiency and passenger comfort. BEST stated that battery weight has been reduced by approximately 16 per cent compared with earlier models.
The batteries, previously installed on the roof, have now been shifted to the lower section of the vehicles. The revised positioning is designed to improve weight distribution and optimise available space.
For passenger safety and operational monitoring, the buses are equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS), hydraulic power-assisted steering, CCTV cameras, Vehicle Tracking Systems (VTS) and emergency panic buttons.
Five Routes to Improve Connectivity
The new fleet will connect several locations, including Kandivali Bus Station (East), Sangharsh Nagar in Chandivali, Samata Nagar Bus Station in Kandivali East and Magathane Depot.
Services are also expected to cover Borivali Station (East), Mira Road Station (East) and Thane Station (East), strengthening connectivity across Mumbai’s western suburbs and neighbouring areas.
Source: The Free Press Journal
