Mumbai BEST Panel Sounds Alarm Over Defective Buses Posing Grave Safety Threat
Members of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) committee have raised a critical red flag, highlighting what they describe as a grave and immediate threat to commuter safety. The concern stems from the operation of "defective buses" within the fleet, including those procured through wet lease contracts that ply Mumbai's congested roads.
Immediate Inspection Drive Ordered on War Footing
In a swift response, BEST General Manager Sonia Sethi has directed that an intensified inspection campaign be launched immediately. This drive is to be undertaken on a war footing to identify any such buses with potential hazards. A detailed report from a specialized probe team within the traffic division is mandated to be submitted within one week.
This urgent move follows significant observations made by the Bombay High Court. In the context of the 2024 Kurla accident case, the court expressed shock over the fact that BEST drivers received no practical training for operating electric buses. The court has since granted bail to the BEST driver involved in that incident.
Documented Defects and Allegations of Negligence
Shiv Sena (UBT) member Nitin Nandgaonkar submitted a formal petition to the BEST administration, accompanied by documentary proof and a detailed defect chart. This chart covered buses from two private contractors operating under wet lease agreements.
- In one case, defects were identified in eight buses.
- Another case concerned five wet lease buses.
Nandgaonkar alleged that several of these vehicles continue to be deployed for passenger service despite having major technical faults that should have grounded them. The serious defects highlighted include:
- Steering lock malfunctions
- Risks of brake failure
- Brake liner problems
- Poor overall vehicle condition
- Lack of essential safety measures
- Inadequate maintenance leading to repeated breakdowns
"Faults in critical systems, such as steering and brakes, can directly result in crashes and mishaps," Nandgaonkar warned. "This puts not only passengers but also pedestrians at significant risk."
Allegations of Superficial Repairs and Lack of Accountability
Nandgaonkar further alleged a pattern of negligence. He claimed that in some instances, engineers identified defects and insisted on repairs, but the buses were later shown as "repaired" and returned to service without proper rectification of the issues.
One specific example cited involved steering lock work that was marked as completed. However, during a subsequent inspection, the defect was found not to have been properly addressed, leaving a continuing threat to public safety. He also noted that in some cases, mandatory second checks were not conducted at all.
Nandgaonkar questioned the accountability mechanisms, asking whether wet lease operators face any penalties for deploying poorly maintained buses. His demands include:
- Regular road worthiness checks
- Strict adherence to annual fitness tests by the Regional Transport Office (RTO)
- A high-level independent inquiry into the matter
- Strict action against guilty contractors and officials
- A firm rule that no bus should operate without written clearance from the engineering department
BEST Official's Response on Safety Protocols
A senior BEST official, responding to the allegations, stated that all wet lease buses undergo regular snap inspections and surprise technical checks at depots. The official outlined the protocol:
Critical systems such as steering, braking, tyres, suspension, structural condition, electrical systems, and overall operational fitness are thoroughly examined. If any defect or maintenance lapse is discovered, immediate corrective action is initiated. This includes withholding the bus from deployment, directing necessary repairs, requiring technical re-verification before re-induction into service, and imposing contractual penalties where warranted.
The official maintained a firm stance, asserting that buses with safety-critical defects, especially those involving steering or braking systems, are categorically not allowed to operate unless they are fully rectified and certified as fit for service.
Broader Concerns Over Passenger Comfort and Safety
The issue extends beyond immediate mechanical faults. AIMIM member Faisal Khan also raised concerns regarding passenger comfort and safety. He pointed out cases of air-conditioning failures in older buses, which becomes a serious health and comfort issue, particularly during Mumbai's intense summer months.
The situation underscores a pressing need for comprehensive oversight, stringent maintenance protocols, and unwavering accountability to ensure the safety of millions of Mumbaikars who rely on the BEST bus service daily.
