The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) employees have announced an indefinite strike starting from Friday, June 18, 2026, over multiple demands including wage revision and better working conditions. The strike is likely to affect bus services across Mumbai, causing inconvenience to daily commuters.
Key Demands of BEST Employees
The striking workers have put forward a list of demands, which include immediate implementation of the 7th Pay Commission recommendations, regularisation of temporary staff, and revision of pension schemes. They are also demanding an increase in the dearness allowance and better medical benefits.
Services Likely to be Affected
The strike is expected to severely impact BEST bus services, which are a lifeline for millions of Mumbaikars. More than 3,000 buses may remain off the roads, leading to long waiting hours and overcrowding in other modes of transport. The BEST administration has urged the employees to reconsider their decision and has assured that talks are underway to resolve the issues.
What Commuters Should Expect
- Disruption in bus services across all routes.
- Long queues at bus stops.
- Increased reliance on local trains, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
- Possible delays in reaching offices and other destinations.
The union leaders have stated that the strike will continue until their demands are met. The BEST management, on the other hand, has appealed to the employees to maintain dialogue and avoid inconvenience to the public.
