The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) recently presented its budget for the financial year 2021-22 on Saturday, October 10.
In this budget, the power sector, which was in profit, has suffered a loss whereas the deficit in the transport sector has been reduced. Moreover, Surendrakumar Bagde, BEST's general manager on Saturday, estimated a deficit of ₹1,887.83 crores for the transport and power sector.
As per reports, BEST's budget for 2020-21 showed a total loss of ₹2,249.74 crores. Even though in this year's budget for 2021-22 the deficit has been reduced, however, in last year's budget, the power sector had a profit of ₹99 crores. This year, the department is at a loss, as a result, there have been ongoing concerns with regards to the losses of BEST.
Meanwhile, the number of BEST passengers has recently crossed 16,00,000. Amidst the coronavirus-induced lockdown, BEST has been utilizing 3,200 to 3,450 out of 3,500 of its fleet on the road every day. Many of these vehicles have frequent breakdowns due to their condition. Therefore, out of 3,500 buses owned by BEST, 898 buses have reached a deplorable condition and hence, are to be scrapped in phases by March 2021.
Due to lack of funds, no decision has been taken yet to replace these buses. On the other hand, the arrival of some of the 1,200 trains on lease has been delayed for various reasons. Out of 1,227 mini air-conditioned buses, 462 buses have arrived in BEST's fleet. The arrival of the remaining 765 mini air-conditioned buses is being delayed.
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