The Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST) is taking a big step towards sustainability in Mumbai. It's seeking proposals for the wet leasing of 10 electric buses, which will be double-deckers with air conditioning (AC) on their bottom decks.
According to reports, BEST is inviting contractors to submit their proposals. The chosen contractor will be given a route and will be reimbursed on a per-kilometre basis for the use of these buses. The contract will last for 12 years from the date of delivery of each bus lot, as per BEST regulations.
These double-decker buses are no strangers to Mumbai. Earlier, they used to be a major tourist attraction, providing a unique way to see important sites like Colaba, the Gateway of India, and the Flora Fountain. However, they stopped running in October of last year due to an aged fleet and a shortage of replacements.
BEST is now looking for a wet lease contract to maintain the service, as the open double-decker buses for everyday commuters have been discontinued.
Under the wet leasing agreement, the chosen contractor will be responsible for employee salaries, running costs, lime fuel, etc. The transport body will pay the contractor based on the number of kilometres worked.
The contract requires a guaranteed yearly mileage of 54,000 kilometres for the ten open double-decker buses with air-conditioned lower decks.
The selected agency must ensure the continuous operation of these buses with a sufficient number of spare buses. If continuous operation is not maintained, BEST may terminate the contract. Non-payment towards the assured kilometre for that whole day will result in a penalty.
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