The Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking is considering a major expansion of its electricity distribution operations beyond Mumbai’s island city into the eastern and western suburbs.
The move comes as Adani Electricity Mumbai has approached the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) seeking permission to supply electricity to Dharavi as part of its redevelopment plans. In response, BEST is preparing a technical assessment to determine the manpower, investment, infrastructure and operational resources required to extend its distribution network.
BEST officials said the assessment is expected to be completed within a month. The proposal was discussed during a BEST Committee meeting, where members representing various political parties urged the undertaking to oppose Adani Electricity Mumbai’s application before MERC.
At present, BEST supplies electricity to nearly 1.08 million consumers across its existing distribution area, extending from Cuffe Parade and Colaba to Sion and Mahim. Between 400,000 and 500,000 of its consumers are commercial establishments.
The undertaking has historically supplied electricity in Dharavi as well. Officials said BEST intends to challenge the proposal involving an area with roughly 90,000 consumers and a population estimated at around one million.
The proposed suburban expansion is also being considered against the backdrop of Mumbai’s continuing redevelopment activity. BEST added approximately 5,500 consumers during FY26, and officials believe redevelopment projects could provide opportunities to significantly expand the customer base. The exact target, however, will be determined following the technical study. The undertaking is examining a potential increase of 8 to 10 per cent in its consumer base.
A wider network would put BEST in direct competition with private electricity distributors. Adani Electricity Mumbai currently serves around 2.9 million consumers, while Tata Power supplies approximately 750,000 customers across Mumbai’s island city and suburbs.
Committee members have called for improvements in BEST’s systems, infrastructure and operational capabilities to strengthen its position.
Meanwhile, MERC will assess Adani Electricity Mumbai’s Dharavi application and conduct a hearing before taking a decision.
Source: Construction World
