Archive · 2 Jun 2025
Mumbai BEST Bus Fares to Increase After 2018 Freeze
Mumbai's bus fares are going up for the first time since 2018.
The company that runs the buses needs more money, so they're charging more for rides.
The lowest fare will be more expensive for both air-conditioned and regular buses.
They're also making monthly passes cost more.
Some people are unhappy, saying it's too expensive and could hurt the bus service.
Others say it's needed to keep the buses running well.
Officials say that the increase is needed to maintain the service, and update the city's bus network.
Mumbai's BEST bus fares are set to increase, the first revision since 2018.
The fare hike was approved by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) due to the undertaking's financial issues.
Minimum fares for non-AC buses will increase to ₹10, while AC bus fares will start at ₹12.
Monthly and weekly passes will also see substantial increases under the new system.
The fare rise is expected to boost BEST's revenue by about ₹590 crore.
- Who
- Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST), Mumbai commuters, officials, and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray.
- What
- Fare increases for BEST buses, including both AC and non-AC services and monthly passes.
- When
- The hike was approved after a review meeting on Friday, April 26th, 2025, and is expected to be implemented soon.
- Where
- Mumbai, India.
- Why
- To ease the financial burden on BEST and maintain reliable service and financial stability, according to officials.
Opponents of the Hike
Supporters of the Hike
Fare Increase Justification
Opponents of the Hike
Critics, including Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, oppose the fare increase, citing potential adverse effects on BEST and the public.
Supporters of the Hike
BEST officials state the hike is necessary for financial stability and to maintain reliable service.
- Non-AC bus minimum fare
- ₹10
- AC bus minimum fare
- ₹12
- 5 km non-AC monthly pass (Old)
- ₹450
- 5 km non-AC monthly pass (New)
- ₹800
- 5 km AC monthly pass (Old)
- ₹600
- 5 km AC monthly pass (New)
- ₹1100
- Estimated revenue increase
- ₹590 crore