BEST Panel Raises Alarm Over Defective Buses in Mumbai Fleet
Members of the BEST panel in Mumbai have highlighted what they describe as a severe and immediate threat to commuter safety, stemming from defective buses within the fleet. This includes wet lease contract buses that operate on the city's roads.
Immediate Action Ordered by General Manager
In response to these concerns, BEST General Manager Sonia Sethi has directed that an intensified inspection drive be launched on a war footing. The goal is to identify any such buses with defects, and a detailed report from a probe team in the traffic division is expected within one week.
Context from Bombay High Court Observations
This move follows closely on the heels of observations made by the Bombay High Court in the 2024 Kurla accident case. The court expressed shock over the fact that BEST drivers received no practical training for operating electric buses, underscoring broader safety issues.
Detailed Defect Chart Submitted by Panel Member
In a petition to the BEST administration, Sena UBT member Nitin Nandgaonkar provided a comprehensive defect chart covering two private bus contractors. According to his submission:
- Defects were identified in eight buses from one contractor.
- Another case involves five wet lease buses with significant issues.
Nandgaonkar alleged that several of these vehicles continue to be deployed despite having major technical faults, which poses a direct risk to public safety.
Serious Defects Highlighted
Among the critical defects noted in the report are:
- Steering lock issues that could impair vehicle control.
- Risks of brake failure and problems with brake liners.
- Poor overall vehicle condition and a lack of essential safety measures.
- Inadequate maintenance leading to repeated breakdowns on the road.
Nandgaonkar further claimed that in some instances, buses were marked as repaired and returned to service without proper rectification of the underlying problems.
BEST Official's Response
A senior BEST official countered these allegations by stating that all wet lease buses undergo regular surprise technical checks to ensure they meet safety standards. However, the panel's concerns highlight ongoing challenges in maintaining fleet safety.
This situation underscores the urgent need for robust inspection protocols and timely maintenance to safeguard commuters in Mumbai's public transport system.
