The Maharashtra government has categorically ruled out the sale of any land owned by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking as part of its proposed large-scale redevelopment plan. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, during a review meeting on Friday, directed officials to prepare a comprehensive long-term revival strategy that includes public parking facilities, employee housing, and dedicated Marathi film theatres at selected locations.
Redevelopment Through Public-Private Partnership
At the review meeting focused on modernizing BEST bus depots, Fadnavis emphasized that redevelopment would be carried out under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Importantly, ownership of all land and assets will remain with BEST. The projects are proposed to be implemented through long-term lease arrangements, ensuring that the public utility retains control over its properties.
Focus on Public Amenities
The chief minister stressed that redevelopment should not be limited to commercial exploitation of land but must also create public amenities. In addition to museums, sports, and cultural facilities, he suggested the establishment of dedicated cinema halls with a seating capacity of 300-400 for Marathi films at select depots, with concessional screening arrangements to promote regional cinema.
Addressing Parking Shortage
Highlighting Mumbai's acute parking shortage, Fadnavis directed that large-scale parking infrastructure be integrated into the redevelopment plan. He also instructed officials to examine the development of transport hubs and bus parking facilities at former octroi check posts in Dahisar, Mankhurd, Anand Nagar (Mulund), LBS Road, and Airoli Naka. This move aims to reduce congestion caused by private buses entering the city.
Modernization of Bus Depots
Officials informed the meeting that BEST plans to redevelop all 22 of its bus depots, which are spread across 132 acres in Mumbai, through a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model. The proposal includes modern depot infrastructure, employee housing, public parking facilities, commercial development, and electric bus charging infrastructure.
BEST General Manager Sonia Sethi stated that the undertaking aims to modernize its depots on the lines of systems in Singapore, Paris, Hong Kong, and London. The redevelopment plan also envisions support infrastructure for an expanded fleet of 7,000 buses.
Long-Term Vision
Fadnavis asked officials to prepare a detailed roadmap for BEST's requirements over the next 22 years, aligning with the state's 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision. He emphasized that the proposal should address future fleet requirements, workforce needs, revenues, and expenditure while balancing three key priorities: public interest, employee welfare, and Mumbai's long-term development.
