BEST orders mandatory retraining for 5,200 wet-lease drivers after multiple accidents in Mumbai

BEST has allocated three additional electric buses to the Dindoshi Training Centre for practical training. Representational Pic/File

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking has launched a major road safety drive, making a three-day refresher training course mandatory for around 5,200 wet-lease bus drivers operating across Mumbai, an official statement said on Wednesday.

The decision follows recent serious bus accidents in Mankhurd and Mulund, prompting BEST authorities to step up safety measures for contractor-operated buses.

Following the accidents, the BEST Committee Chairperson and the General Manager held an emergency meeting with wet-lease bus contractors.

The contractors were directed to take immediate steps to prevent unsafe driving and ensure that buses are properly maintained.

BEST has also instructed operators to ensure that drivers follow road safety rules and maintain discipline while operating buses.

Two-month retraining programme

The special training programme will cover all around 5,200 wet-lease drivers within two months.

The refresher course will focus on defensive driving and safe road behaviour. Drivers will be trained to maintain adequate distances, follow lane discipline and avoid sudden manoeuvres.

The programme will also reinforce speed limits and the prohibition on using mobile phones while driving.

BEST has allocated three additional electric buses to the Dindoshi Training Centre for practical training.

Four more buses are expected to be added to the training fleet shortly.

The BEST buses will be used to provide drivers with practical, on-road training and help them improve their driving skills in real traffic conditions.

Regular inspections of wet-lease buses

BEST's Engineering Department has also increased checks on contractor-operated buses.

Engineers will conduct physical inspections twice a month on every wet-lease bus. Any mechanical problems identified during the inspections will be taken up for repairs.

The move is intended to ensure that buses remain roadworthy and reduce the risk of accidents caused by mechanical faults.

Passengers can report dangerous driving

BEST is also strengthening its passenger complaint system.

Toll-free helpline numbers are being displayed prominently inside buses so that passengers can report dangerous driving or other safety-related concerns.

Passengers can contact the Passenger Complaint Redressal Cell on 1800227550, 8657045008 and 24137937.

BEST supervisory teams will also conduct regular road safety awareness sessions for drivers, conductors and commuters.

Focus on safer public transport

The combined measures are aimed at improving driver behaviour, strengthening bus maintenance and giving passengers a direct way to report safety concerns.

BEST said the safety campaign is intended to build a safer and more reliable public transport system and reduce the risk of accidents involving its contractor-operated buses.