In the wake of a series of bus accidents, including the recent incident in Dadar, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has launched a large-scale counselling and safety awareness programme for its drivers. More than 7,000 drivers are expected to undergo the exercise aimed at improving road safety and preventing accidents.
As part of the programme, drivers are being advised to exercise caution while operating key controls such as the handbrake, clutch and steering wheel. They are also being instructed to maintain prescribed speed limits on city roads, thoroughly inspect buses before leaving depots and avoid overtaking two-wheelers while driving.
Recent accidents involving BEST buses have been reported in Kurla, Bhandup, Dadar and Kandivali. Notably, all of these incidents involved buses operated on a contractual basis, raising concerns about the safety standards of leased vehicles.
BEST currently serves around 2.5 million passengers daily and is regarded as one of Mumbai’s safest and most affordable modes of public transport. Its fleet consists of approximately 2,700 buses, including owned and leased air-conditioned electric buses as well as non-air-conditioned vehicles.
However, officials have noted an increase in accidents involving BEST buses, particularly leased vehicles, in recent years. This has led to concerns about the safety of pedestrians and two-wheeler riders on Mumbai’s roads.
Following the accidents in Bhandup, Kurla and Dadar, BEST decided to intensify driver training and counselling efforts. Around 7,000 drivers operating both owned and contracted buses are employed by the undertaking. Drivers already undergo a month-long training programme at the Dindoshi training centre, and the current counselling sessions focus specifically on accident prevention and safe driving practices.
According to BEST officials, buses operate in three shifts, with three drivers assigned to each vehicle. While the maximum permitted speed is 60 kmph, the undertaking has emphasised the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols to reduce accidents and ensure passenger and public safety.
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