BEST route No. 1 to resume as officials reverse discontinuation decision

Mumbai’s historic Bus Route Number 1 is set to make a comeback after being temporarily discontinued as part of the city’s ongoing bus route rationalisation. The decision to restore the service was confirmed by officials from the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) - to the Free Press Journal - undertaking following widespread commuter criticism. It was clarified by the BEST General Manager that the service had only been paused and not permanently discontinued. A resumption within four days was assured, addressing mounting concerns from daily passengers who had been significantly impacted by the sudden route change. The route, which historically connected Colaba to Bandra Reclamation via Mahim, had been known for its wide coverage and as the earliest to operate double-decker buses in the city. Originally introduced during the British colonial period under the name Route A, it had evolved over decades to become a vital transport lifeline for many residents.

Passengers had expressed strong disapproval over its suspension, stating that the alternative Route Number 51—extending from Colaba to Santacruz—was insufficient for their daily travel needs. Officials had justified the decision by stating that the change was made to avoid duplication and improve efficiency under a newly launched network restructuring plan. Even during the COVID-19 lockdown, Route 1 had continued to operate when train services were halted for the general public, offering essential mobility through its fleet of double-decker buses from the Colaba depot.

The move to suspend the route had been part of a larger strategy unveiled in June, wherein BEST introduced significant changes to more than 30 bus routes across the city. These changes included the addition of air-conditioned services, renumbering, rerouting, and revised schedules. The reforms were aimed at aligning with new metro corridors, enhancing feeder connectivity, and addressing longstanding passenger suggestions.

However, the backlash against the removal of Route Number 1 highlighted the need to preserve certain legacy services that continue to hold functional and emotional importance for Mumbaikars. In response to the feedback, BEST promptly took steps to reinstate the route, reaffirming its commitment to public service and heritage preservation.