BEST Ends Contract with Hansa City Bus Service, Removing 280 Mini-Buses from Mumbai Roads

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has decided to end its contract with Hansa City Bus Service Private Limited. This decision follows unresolved issues regarding the operator's failure to run buses. Consequently, 280 red air-conditioned mini-buses, previously hired under a wet lease agreement, will no longer be operational in Mumbai.

In a recent meeting, the contractor reiterated its inability to fulfil the contract. BEST spokesperson Sudas Sawant confirmed that legal steps for contract termination will soon begin. This development means over 500 mini-buses introduced in 2019 will be withdrawn from service.

Impact on Commuters and Fleet Size

With these mini-buses off the roads, BEST's fleet has shrunk to fewer than 3,000 vehicles. This reduction has led to increased challenges for passengers, including longer waiting times at bus stops and more crowded buses. The frequency of bus services has also decreased.

The mini-buses primarily operated in Mumbai's western suburbs. Areas such as Dindoshi, Oshiwara, and Marol are experiencing difficulties due to this change. However, BEST has replaced the 31-seater mini-buses on these routes with regular buses to mitigate the impact.

Background and Challenges of Mini-Buses

BEST introduced these smaller buses in 2019 to enhance last-mile connectivity on shorter routes. The decision was influenced by worsening traffic conditions and the difficulty of manoeuvring larger buses on crowded roads. The smaller size was expected to improve turnaround times.

Despite their intended benefits, the Tempo Traveller model mini-buses faced criticism from passengers. Common complaints included narrow gangways, inadequate air conditioning, cramped seating, poor maintenance, unprofessional staff behaviour, and buses skipping stops.

Role During Lockdown

Despite their drawbacks, these mini-buses were valuable during the lockdown period. BEST and civic authorities utilised them for delivering food packets, transporting healthcare workers, and even as ambulances.

Last year, BEST terminated another bus operator's contract, resulting in 285 buses being taken off the roads. Approximately 32 lakh commuters rely on BEST services daily, highlighting the importance of maintaining an efficient public transport system in Mumbai.