Address concerns of BEST committee immediately

Representation pic

Red flags have been raised by members of the BEST committee over the safety and reliability of Mumbai's electric buses. Members alleged brake pressure issues and a shortage of charging infrastructure at the Kurla depot, where 70 buses share just 14 charging points.

According to committee members, air brake pressure levels were dropping during operations, depot staff were allegedly required to inspect buses after each trip, and there was a charging point crunch.

Operators stated this was not about the vehicles but driver training, handling and maintenance. We need a complete inspection and resolution of all problems, whether it be vehicles or manpower.

After all, these buses are on our roads, and it is up to those responsible to ensure that the vehicles and those that drive them are competent and good enough to be on the roads. Instead of dismissing any red flags raised, start checks instantly and resolve now, not later or tomorrow. That is for safety. Increase the number of charging points at this depot and at other depots too. The frequency of buses has dropped. More charging points will ensure better availability for the public, cutting waiting time at bus stops.

There has been some worry about driver training in the past, too. If there are shortfalls, that is a dangerous and deadly situation. Look into that now, identify loopholes and plug those in, upping training. Add training hours if needed. Do not be in any hurry to put drivers behind the wheel and on the road. Upkeep and maintenance are an absolute must. There are so many lives at stake; we need a robust, adequate response for road safety.