BEST Increases BUS Fleet By 1,000 Units: Daily Earnings Cross The Rs 90 Lakh Mark

Reports say that 2,200 buses ferried 2.5 lakh passengers on 8 June once workplaces and stores reopened after the lockdown in Mumbai. The brand now operates 3,200 buses that account for 91 percent of the Undertaking's total fleet.

The company is concentrating heavily towards increasing the number of passengers they ferry, and say that the number is likely to touch the 15 lakh mark by the end of the month. The sheer number of passengers will help the company cross the Rs 1 crore mark in earnings.

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport Undertaking has also started selling monthly passes across 29 outlets in the city. Commuters can also renew their passes and avail extensions for passes that could not be used during the lockdown.

The company says there is a large demand for their red buses and they plan to operate across 500 routes within the city, in sync with the State Government's Mission Begin Again initiative.

The brand has put on hold special services for far off suburbs like Vasai-Virar, Badlapur-Kalyan and Panvel, but say the number of commuters has increased even after a reduction in services to ferry essential service staff.

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport Undertaking also said that all safety and health related protocols are in place, and that social distancing mandates are being followed.

As is, a BEST bus is allowed to accommodate up to 25 seated passengers, and up to five standees. Passengers can also complain or write to the company in case of violations of the protocols.

Thoughts About The Increase In The Number Of Buses In The BEST Fleet

While the numbers for both, the new fleet size, and the earnings are impressive, it may not have been a wise decision in hindsight. Maharashtra has the highest number of Covid-19 cases, and more lockdowns are in store for citizens. We wonder what the lads at BEST will do once more lockdowns are called for.