Published on March 28, 2026
The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) has firmly rejected a proposal from Mumbai’s Municipal Commissioner, Iqbal Singh Chahal, to curtail certain bus routes that operate near the iconic Gateway of India. Officials from BEST indicated that making such changes would significantly inconvenience commuters, especially during a time when the agency is grappling with financial challenges.
BEST’s response comes after complaints from some quarters regarding congestion around the popular tourist destination. However, according to BEST officials, the potential disruption to bus services could lead to a sharp decline in ridership, compounding existing issues with revenue losses. The organization is already facing a tough financial scenario, having seen a notable decline in passengers and a reduced fleet of operational buses.
In a recent statement, a BEST spokesperson emphasized that the agency is committed to providing reliable transportation options for Mumbai residents and visitors alike. “Curtailing these routes would not only inconvenience our daily commuters but also deter more people from utilizing public transport, which is vital for the city’s mobility,” the spokesperson said.
As Mumbai grapples with an expanding urban population and increasing traffic congestion, the importance of a robust public transport system has become more pronounced. BEST officials argued that any measures designed to alleviate traffic should not come at the expense of public transport reliability.
The decision underscores BEST’s commitment to its riders while highlighting the broader challenges faced systems in urban areas. As authorities continue to explore solutions to improve traffic flow and commuter experiences, the agency’s leaders maintain that a careful balance must be struck between operational efficiency and customer service.
Related News
- Quiet Talks, Big Stakes: US–Belarus Deal Could Reshape the Region
- Lady Day: March 25 was the start of the year in England and Wales until 1752
- ‘Never seen anything like it’: Tens of thousands of homes at risk as building costs soar
- Photos of the Week: Sound Battle, Stork Center, Gorilla Puppet (28 photos)
- An Invisible Bottleneck: A Helium Shortage Threatens the Chip Industry
- An artist made an ‘anti-racist’ version of the UK flag. You’ll never guess what happened next