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yesterday

Maharashtra Greenlights BEST Depot Redevelopment and Fleet Expansion

State government approves major reforms to modernize Mumbai's bus network, including depot redevelopment, fleet electrification by 2027, and real-time tracking with Google.

Mumbai, India. Apr 26, 2025: Amchi Mumbai Amchi BEST NGO organize a public hearing for BEST buses at Marathi Patrakar Sangh in Mumbai. Mumbai, India. Apr 26, 2025. Photo by Raju Shinde/HT Photo) (Hindustan Times)
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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis takes a ride in the BEST's electric AC bus service after its inauguration, in Mumbai on Friday. (CMO Maharashtra - X)

Overview

  • The Maharashtra government formally approved the redevelopment of Bandra, Deonar, and Dindoshi bus depots to generate additional revenue for the financially struggling BEST Undertaking.
  • A 3% allocation of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) budget to BEST was mandated, alongside efforts to clear ₹1,658 crore in dues and secure toll exemptions.
  • BEST plans to expand its fleet from 2,783 to 7,000 buses, with full electrification targeted by 2027, including the recent launch of the A-30 electric AC route.
  • A memorandum of understanding with Google aims to provide commuters with real-time bus tracking and reduce wait times, addressing long-standing service issues.
  • Public hearings highlighted commuter frustrations over overcrowding, poor bus frequency, and concerns about depot redevelopment, citing past failures where developers defaulted and operational space was compromised.