Mumbai’s BEST Bus Drivers Assigned Alternative Duties After Fatal Mishap

Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) is implementing new measures for bus drivers following a tragic incident on December 29, 2023, in Bhandup. An AC electric bus was involved in an accident that resulted in the deaths of four pedestrians and injuries to ten others. In response to this mishap, Sonia Sethi, the general manager of BEST, has instructed the personnel department to temporarily assign drivers involved in accidents to alternative duties as a way to enhance passenger safety awareness.

The directives issued by Sethi apply to all drivers operating electric buses, including both BEST’s on-roll drivers and those from wet-lease operators. Effective immediately, these drivers will be required to participate in mandatory refresher and skill-upgrade training. The training program will focus on defensive driving, safe handling of electric vehicles (EVs), speed regulation, braking behavior, and overall road safety practices.

In a proactive move, BEST has also initiated a comprehensive review of driver service records. Any drivers found to have a history of defaults, repeated violations, or prior suspensions will be withdrawn from active driving duties without delay. These drivers will not be redeployed until they have undergone further review and received clearance according to established norms.

Enhanced Training and Support Measures

To ensure uniformity in safety practices across its operations, BEST plans to integrate a mobile driver training vehicle into its training program. This vehicle will cover all 27 BEST depots, facilitating on-site sensitization of drivers to the new safety protocols. Structured counselling sessions conducted by supervisors will provide clear instructions on standard operating procedures.

Drivers will now be required to stop properly at designated bus stops and ensure that all passengers have boarded safely before departing. An official emphasized that passenger and pedestrian safety must take precedence over schedule pressures. Alongside operational checks, the counselling program will also focus on driver wellbeing. Each driver will receive personalized guidance, and any psychological or stress-related issues identified during these interactions will be addressed through appropriate support channels.

Despite these significant safety measures, BEST is facing ongoing operational challenges. The number of buses in its fleet has decreased to 249, while the total number of wet-lease buses stands at 2,495. A shortage of drivers remains a critical issue, with some contractual buses now being operated by full-time BEST drivers. In the Bhandup incident, the bus driver involved was contracted to a private operator but was provided by BEST.

These developments represent BEST’s commitment to improving safety for both passengers and drivers, particularly in the wake of such a devastating event. As the organization works to address these challenges, it continues to prioritize the health and safety of its community.