Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Mumbai's Unused Buses Amidst Commuter Crisis: A Closer Look
Many people in Mumbai are having a hard time getting around on buses.
The city has about 100 mini-buses that aren't being used, even though they could help.
The company that was supposed to run those buses broke the rules, so the city canceled the contract.
Now, a union is saying the city relies too much on private companies.
They want the city to control the buses so things can improve.
They say there aren't enough drivers, conductors, and mechanics, which makes things unsafe.
Nearly 100 mini-buses remain unused at a Mumbai depot while commuters face transport issues.
BEST terminated a contract with M P Enterprises in December 2022 due to multiple violations.
The contract violations included frequent bus breakdowns, operational irregularities, and defaults.
Union leaders criticize BEST's reliance on private operators, citing staff shortages.
A union representative advocates for returning public transport control to BEST.
- Who
- The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) and M P Enterprises.
- What
- Around 100 mini-buses are unused in Mumbai while commuters face transport issues.
- When
- The contract was terminated in December 2022.
- Where
- Mumbai, specifically at the Anik depot in Sion.
- Why
- The buses are unused due to a contract termination caused by multiple violations from a private operator, as well as staff shortages.
Union Perspective
BEST Administration
Reliance on Private Operators
Union Perspective
Excessive dependence on private operators has created vulnerabilities.
BEST Administration
N/A
Bus Ownership
Union Perspective
The city needs over 3,000 buses under BEST ownership to meet city demand.
BEST Administration
N/A
Staffing and Outsourcing
Union Perspective
Staff shortages and reliance on outsourcing affect commuter safety and reliability.
BEST Administration
N/A
- Buses Unused
- Approximately 100
- Depot Location
- Anik depot, Sion
- Contractor
- M P Enterprises
- Contract Termination Date
- December 2022
- BEST-owned buses
- 300
- Buses Needed
- 3,000+