Mumbai Bus Crash Exposes Systemic Issues in BEST Operations

The Kurla accident that killed seven and injured 42 highlights poor training, overworked drivers, and financial struggles within Mumbai's public transport system.

The Kurla crash involved a BEST electric bus driven by Sanjay More, who lacked adequate training and experience with automatic electric buses.
Investigations revealed that More received only a single day of training for operating electric buses, falling short of BEST's standard six-week refresher requirement.
BEST's reliance on contract drivers with lower pay and hasty training has been linked to safety concerns; only 9% of its drivers are permanent employees.
The transport body faces financial challenges, with a debt of ₹6,000 crore, leading to cost-cutting measures such as wet-leasing buses and hiring contract staff.
Videos of contract drivers allegedly consuming alcohol while on duty have further raised concerns about safety and accountability in BEST operations.