10 June,2026 11:08 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational image. File pic
The BEST bus, since the last couple of days, has been in the news for all the bad reasons. On Wednesday, passengers aboard a BEST wet-lease electric bus had a narrow escape after thick smoke was seen emanating from one of the vehicle's rear tyres. The incident occurred at Jambhori Maidan in Kurla. Officials, while briefing about the incident, said that no injuries were reported and the situation was soon brought under control.
According to the official statement from BEST, the incident took place at around 8:15 am involving Bus No. 8527, operated by EV Trans-Mumbai on Route A-37/39.
The bus was travelling from Kurla Depot towards J. Mehta, when the driver noticed a large amount of smoke coming from the left rear tyre.
Acting swiftly, the driver immediately stopped the bus and evacuated all passengers to safety. Following the driver, the conductor quickly acted and alerted the fire brigade, which reached the spot and carried out precautionary measures.
Officials further said that the Fire Brigade disconnected the bus's battery system, following which the smoke emission ceased. The incident was subsequently reported to the BEST Bus control room, which arranged for a breakdown van to reach the location and undertake the necessary technical inspection and repairs.
The officials further highlighted, "No passengers or crew members were injured or harmed in the incident."
While the exact cause of the smoke is yet to be determined, the bus has been taken for further investigation. The prompt response by the driver, conductor and emergency services helped avert any major mishap.
The incident comes as Mumbai continues to expand its electric bus fleet under wet lease arrangements as part of its efforts to promote cleaner and sustainable public transport.
Moreover, authorities are expected to assess the vehicle to determine the cause of the mechanical issue and ensure operational safety.
A 24-year-old woman has been critically injured after she and another pedestrian were injured in an accident involving a BEST wet-lease electric bus near Poisar Depot in Mumbai's western suburbs on Monday.
According to an accident report issued by the BEST Command and Control Centre, the incident occurred at around 11:50 am on June 8.
The bus was approaching Poisar Depot, and two pedestrians came into contact with the vehicle and sustained injuries. While the exact circumstances leading to the accident are yet to be ascertained, the tragic incident has caused major injuries to the woman, who has currently been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in a private hospital.
