The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking has intensified its safety drive after catching 23 wet-lease bus drivers using mobile phones while driving within just 18 days. The violations were recorded between June 12 and June 30, raising fresh concerns about road safety and driver discipline in the city's public transport system.
The crackdown follows the fatal Dadar bus accident on June 12, when a speeding wet-lease electric bus lost control near Plaza Cinema, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to six others. In response, BEST has strengthened monitoring measures to improve passenger safety and enforce stricter driving standards.
According to BEST officials, every driver found using a mobile phone while operating a bus has been fined Rs 1,000. Repeat offenders will face a penalty of INR 2,000, while a third violation could lead to a chargesheet against the concerned wet-lease operator, increasing accountability for private companies managing leased buses.
To curb reckless driving and reduce distractions, BEST has deployed officers and depot staff in plain clothes to travel on buses as regular passengers. Their role is to observe drivers and report any unsafe practices.
The inspection teams will monitor violations such as:
BEST officials said surprise checks will continue across all 27 bus depots in Mumbai. Monitoring teams will document violations and recommend disciplinary action against both drivers and private wet-lease operators responsible for the buses.
The transport undertaking hopes that stricter enforcement and continuous surveillance will improve compliance with safety regulations, reduce accidents, and ensure safer travel for thousands of daily commuters across Mumbai.