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BEST aims To Launch New Bus Service Route Via Coastal Road by May

The northbound carriageway of the bowstring arch bridge was inaugurated on January 26 by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

BEST aims To Launch New Bus Service Route Via Coastal Road by May
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The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking is preparing to launch a new bus service along the Mumbai Coastal Road by May. The route will connect Worli and Marine Drive, making a new transport option between the two areas. It will run every 20 to 30 minutes depending on passenger demand.

The first phase of the Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) is almost complete. The northbound carriageway of the bowstring arch bridge was inaugurated on January 26 by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The bridge now makes a direct link between South Mumbai and the Bandra Worli Sea Link (BWSL) without exiting the coastal road.

However, BEST currently has no plans to extend the bus route to Bandra. The reason is reported to be the high costs of BWSL toll. The focus is on the new route between Worli and Marine Drive. Reports suggest that if there is sufficient demand, an extension to Bandra may be considered later.

The BEST has previously operated buses on the Sea Link since 2009, but these services have been discontinued. Currently, the only bus service on the coastal road is Route A-78, running between NCPA and Byculla (West). However, this route has seen low interest. Citizens have expressed disappointment over the absence of dedicated buses on the coastal stretch, which includes a reserved bus lane. 

Furthermore, a shortage of buses is also a challenge for BEST. Currently, the fleet has reduced to fewer than 2,900 buses, making it difficult to introduce new services. Several existing routes have already been affected. As per reports, buses on the coastal road will depend on the availability of additional buses. 

Ongoing infrastructure work has also contributed to the delay. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is constructing ten bus bays along the 10.58-kilometre coastal stretch. The bays require finishing touches, including signage and street furniture.

Additionally, 20 pedestrian underpasses (PUPs) are planned to improve accessibility. Only one underpass, located at Haji Ali, is currently open. The remaining underpasses are expected to open by May 2025.

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