Mumbai’s BEST Buses: As new AC services launch and 30 bus routes are redesigned on June 1, Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) aims to significantly improve public transportation in Mumbai. These changes will help ease passenger commutes and boost connectivity with Mumbai Metro Line 3.

Key Highlights:
1. BEST is introducing new AC bus services.

2. Authorities have renumbered existing routes.

3. Establishing new routes to improve connectivity.
4. The team adjusted the schedule to accommodate commuter demand.

New AC Bus Services:

BEST has added many new AC routes to offer more pleasant travel alternatives:

1. A-8: Shivaji Nagar Terminus to Mantralaya (8:05 AM to 10:50 PM).
2. Route 44 was upgraded to A-44, which now runs from Kala Chowki to Worli Depot.
3. A-125: Mohammed Ali Road from Navy Nagar to Worli Depot.
4. A-241: Malvani to Santacruz.
5. A-175: A roundabout that travels across Antop Hill, Wadala Church, and Khodadad Circle from Pratiksha Nagar Depot to Prabhodhankar Thackeray Udyan.
6. A-490: Eastern Expressway from Mantralaya to Balkum, Thane (East).

Routes 243, 343, 344, 347, 452, 459, 602, and 626 are additional AC services that serve important suburbs and transit hubs such as Malad, Goregaon, Mulund, and Pawai.

Changes in Current Routes:
1. Previously an AC route, route 456 has been changed to a regular circular route.
2. Route 29, which runs from Prabhodhankar Thackeray Udyan to Vihar Sarovar, has been renumbered as Route 25.
3. The authorities have rerouted Route 11 Limited via the Lalbaug flyover between Byculla Station and Parel, avoiding stops at Jijamata Udyan, Jai Hind Cinema, and Lalbaug.

Linking Up With Mumbai Metro Line 3:

With the second phase of Mumbai Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) from BKC to Worli Naka launching soon, BEST is adjusting its routes to enhance last-mile connectivity. Officials also expect to open the Metro’s final stage, Cuffe Parade, shortly.

1. For Metro Phase II, BEST intends to add 29 buses on 17 routes.
2. Phase III will see the addition of 50 more buses on 30 routes.
3. The buses will run on ring routes connecting commercial districts, suburban rail hubs, and metro stations.

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Advantages for Passengers:
1. BEST increased service frequency and optimized routes, reducing average wait times by up to 15 minutes.

2. BEST improved connectivity across Mumbai suburbs and enhanced feeder services to the metro system.

3. The BEST administration should add more AC buses on popular routes during rush hour to increase passenger comfort.

Fares:

BEST operates a fleet of about 2,800 buses and serves over 30 lakh passengers daily, making it Mumbai’s second-largest public transport provider. However, it is currently facing financial difficulties. Media sources report that its revenues have dropped below Rs 700 crore in recent years.

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Fare Modification:

1. The minimum fare for the first five kilometers is doubled.
2. Authorities have removed the fare limitations of Rs 20 (non-AC) and Rs 25 (AC) for trips longer than 20 km.

3. The new tariffs are expected to generate an additional Rs 590 crore in revenue annually.

The Regional Transport Authority and the Mumbai civic authority have yet to approve the fare revision. The BEST administration advises travelers to check the official BEST website or mobile app in advance for any new route changes and updated timetables. To avoid inconvenience, commuters should plan their travel accordingly.

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