Archive · 4 Aug 2025
Bus Ridership Plummets in Mumbai and Delhi Due to Service Issues
Fewer people are taking the bus in Mumbai and Delhi.
This is because buses are not running as often, and people have to wait a long time.
In Mumbai, there are fewer buses because of money problems, and some buses are now run by private companies.
In Delhi, some buses are old and don't work well.
This makes it hard for people to get to work or school on time, and some have to find other ways to get around that cost more.
Bus ridership in Mumbai and Delhi has declined significantly in recent years.
Mumbai's bus fleet has shrunk by 40% since 2011 due to financial issues and privatization.
Delhi faces similar issues with declining fleet numbers, bus aging, and operational inefficiencies.
Long wait times and infrequent service are common complaints from commuters in both cities.
Privatization and rising costs are cited as factors contributing to service degradation.
- Who
- Bus commuters in Mumbai and Delhi
- What
- Bus ridership has decreased in Mumbai and Delhi.
- When
- Since 2011 in Mumbai and between 2019 and 2023 in Delhi.
- Where
- Mumbai and Delhi
- Why
- Due to reduced bus frequency, long wait times, and privatization issues.
Government and Private Operators
Public Service Advocates
Role of Privatization
Government and Private Operators
Privatization allows for efficient service provision through financial incentives.
Public Service Advocates
Public service must not prioritize profits, and the focus should be on providing affordable and accessible transportation.
- Mumbai Ridership Decline
- 44% since 2011
- Delhi Ridership Decline
- 19% between 2019-2023
- Mumbai Bus Fleet Reduction
- 40% since 2011
- Mumbai Private Bus Ownership
- 84%
- Delhi DTC Losses (2015-2022)
- Over Rs 14,000 crore