Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport

8487:

cannot increase electricity and bus fares to maximise its profits. An increase, when effected, is usually carried out to curb losses due to inflation. BMC approval is needed before such an increase goes into effect. Prior 2003 the BEST Understanding was a case Peter paying for Paul means the Electricity Division was in profit and Transport loss, so profit of Electricity was diverted to Transport so break even. The company downstream started after the inception of Electricity Act 2003, in that act it is stated that the profit of Electricity supply cannot be diverted but to be used for same entity. After taking the issue with Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission the company was running by adjusting the profit but after Supreme Court order, it could not adjusted the profit to transport now running in loss.

741:

for the maintenance of 300 buses. At this time it was the largest depot in Asia. After this, the authorities decided that no depot should be called on to look after more than 125 to 150 buses after taking long maintenance times into account. Accordingly, small depots were built at convenient spots in the city and its suburbs. The most recent depot was Kalakilla and Malad. Each depot is a work center that provides bus services effectively every day, carries out preventive maintenance, as well as repairs on buses. Depots carry out maintenance practices such as preventive maintenance, unit replacement, RTO passing, body damage repairs of buses. BEST buses are operated out of the 27 bus depot located in four zones viz. City, Central, Western, and Eastern Suburban zones.

698:

buses have cctv cameras installed but the older buses do not have cctv cameras. All unit overhauling, repairing of body damages, tyre cut repairs, plant and equipment installation and repairs, and reclamation activities are carried out in the workshop. There are roughly 4,500 to 5,000 bus stops in Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Some of them are equipped with bus ETA system. The bus stops are of two types, shelter and pole. All bus stops have route numbers which stop and stop name in Marathi and English. They even have a unique code on all stops. Each bus has a unique number and depot code assigned to it. The depot codes are mentioned below.

445: 733: 473:. The people of Bombay received the bus with enthusiasm, but it took some time before this means of conveyance really established itself. Despite stiff opposition and protests by taxi drivers, the service ran without a hitch, transporting 600,000 passengers by the end of that year. The following year the number had increased to 3.8 million. For several years, it was looked upon as transport for the upper-middle class. Those were the days when the tram was the poor man's transport; it carried one all the way from the 8338:. The museum was founded by P D Paranjape, the BEST officer who religiously collected bus tickets, engines, ticket-issuing machines from depots across the city. The museum was set up in 1984 at BEST's Kurla depot and was shifted to Anik depot in 1993. The museum traces the evolution of BEST. It houses mini models of charming old BEST buses and ancient trams. Hand-written placards in Marathi and photographs are on display for the public. Entry to the museum is free. 501: 11895: 625: 640: 9959: 594: 49: 12227: 10370: 453: 231: 211: 11907: 9947: 8347: 412: 8413: 8405: 8397: 685:(US$ 440 million) order with Olectra Greentech to supply and maintain 2,100 battery electric single-decker buses for a 12 year period in May 2022. In February 2023, India's first battery electric double-decker AC bus was deployed by BEST on the A- 115 route. 200 of these Switch EiV 22 double-decker buses have been ordered from 8379:

10% (2001), among the lowest in India. In 2006, the RPS (Renewable purchase specification) framework came into force, which has made it mandatory for electricity providers to generate or purchase fixed percentage (6% for FY 2009–10) of their power through renewable sources. To comply with this act, BEST plans to install

8486:

Though the BEST is a government-owned company, it does not receive any financial assistance from the BMC, or the state government. BEST also earns revenues by way of advertisements on its buses and bus-stops, and through rent from offices on owned properties. The BEST, being a public utility company,

7348:

Bandra Bus Station (East) - Kalanagar - MMRDA or Family Court - RBI - Income Tax Office - Tata Colony - MMRDA Open Car Park - Bank of Baroda - Indian Oil - MCA Stadium - CA Institute, BKC - MCA Stadium - Swavalamban Bhavan - MMRDA Open Car Park - Bharat Nagar - Tata Colony - Income Tax Office - RBI -

7303:

7285:

Kurla Bus Station (West) - Buddha Colony - Kurla Depot - Anjanabai Magar - BKC Telephone Exchange - Trident Hotel - US Consulate General - Kautilya Bhavan or Videsh Bhavan - MCA Stadium - Swavalamban Bhavan - Indian Oil - MCA Stadium - Kautilya Bhavan or Videsh Bhavan - US Consulate General - Trident

391:) , and no tickets were issued. As the service became increasingly popular, the fare was reduced to two annas (10 paise). Later that year, tickets were issued for the first time to curb increasing ticketless travel. Stearns and Kitteredge reportedly had a stable of 900 horses when tram service began. 394:

In 1882 the municipality entered into an agreement with the Eastern Electric Light and Power Company to provide electric lighting in the Crawford Market and on some of the roads. But the company went into liquidation the following year and the market reverted to gas lighting. In 1899, Bombay Tramway

8378:

within the city limits. As of 2000, BEST supplies a total of 700 MW (938,715 hp), with a consumption of 3,216 GWh (11,578 TJ). The electricity department has 6,000 employees. The city has four 110-kV, twenty-two 33-kV and 22-kV substations. BEST has a distribution loss of around

1682:

As of 2021, the BEST runs approximately 3,800 buses, ferrying 5 million passengers over 443 routes, and has a workforce strength of 38,000, which includes 22,000 bus drivers and conductors. BEST plans to induct more AC & Non AC buses on wet lease and increase total fleet to 6,000 buses by 2021.

740:

Until BEST was taken over by the municipality, only the Colaba depot was available for the maintenance of buses and minor repairs. As the fleet grew, more depots were needed. In 1961 the fleet comprised 1045 buses. Six new depots were constructed for their maintenance. The Wadala depot was equipped

608:

The electricity department is headed by a "Deputy General Manager (Electric Supply)' (DGM (ES))," who is assisted by an "Assistant General Manager (Electric Supply)" (AGM (ES)), and is in charge of planning, new projects, construction, street lighting, computer applications and the generation cell.

604:

The transport department is overseen by a "Deputy General Manager (Traffic Operations)" who is assisted by the "Chief Manager (Traffic)." The 'Chief Manager (Traffic)' oversees the five BEST zones, each headed by a 'Dy. Chief Manager (traffic)'. Each zone consists of 7 to 8 depots, whose operations

670:

and 7 battery electric double-decker buses. The fleet numbers are dynamic due to the National Vehicle Scrappage Policy under which all State and Central government-owned vehicles older than 15 years (including buses owned by transport corporations) will be scrapped from 1 April 2023. These will be

517:

Pursuant to the option given to it under the deed of concession granted to the Bombay Electric Supply and Tramways Co. Ltd, the BMC acquired the assets of the combined undertaking, namely the operation of tramways and distribution of electricity in the city of Bombay as a going concern on 7 August

692:

BEST also have goods carrier buses, break-down vans, blue coloured sightseeing and party buses, tree cutting double decker buses and driving school buses which are used to train drivers. All buses are tagged with a route number and its corresponding destination. They are displayed in the front in

612:

BEST enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the BMC; the latter approves its yearly budget and permits increases in bus fares when required. A body of 17 municipal corporate officials from the ruling party in the BMC form the BEST committee. The committee, headed by a chairman, keeps a tab on the

577:

After the 9/11 bombings, BEST had installed an audio-visual surveillance system (CCTV) on each of its buses to monitor suspicious behavior on-board its vehicles but it is no longer done. Almost all buses had two LCD TVs per bus which showed BEST TV but it was discontinued. BEST had introduced A/C

545:

area. In 1964, due to high operational costs and poor public support, its long-running tram services were terminated. The company became the first company in the country to issue computerised billing in 1974. In 1994, the company introduced electronic meters in a move to replace the less accurate

351:

The "Bombay Tramway Company Limited" was formally set up in 1873. After a contract was entered into between the Bombay Tramway Company, the municipality and Stearns and Kitteredge company, the Bombay Presidency enacted "The Bombay Tramways Act, 1874", under which the company was licensed to run a

7318:

Bandra Bus Station (East) - Kalanagar - MMRDA or Family Court - RBI - Income Tax Office - Tata Colony - Bharat Nagar - Laxmi Tower - Bharat Diamond Bourse - Diamond Market - ICICI Bank - Bharat Nagar - Tata Colony - Income Tax Office - RBI - MMRDA or Family Court - Kalanagar - Bandra Bus Station

7267:

697:

and on the side in English. All buses have GPS devices installed which give real time information about arrival to management as well as passengers. Inside the bus there are LED indicators displaying route and destination as well as upcoming stop name in Marathi and English. The newer wet leased

8499:

buses of London, are one of the defining characteristics of the city. When BEST decided to do away with the double-deckers for operational reasons recently, public protests and sentiment forced it to continue with the service. A move to colour all its buses saffron from red in 1997 also drew in

8387:

in gardens and street lighting where the demand is low. Another option being considered is the possibility of using the 7,000 tonnes (6,889 long tons; 7,716 short tons) of garbage disposed by the city on a daily basis, which can be potentially used to generate 350 megawatts (469,358 hp) of

1649:

The majority of BEST buses consist of ordinary routes. Limited bus services that skip minor stops are used on long routes, high-capacity routes, and routes that provide connectivity beyond Mumbai city. The buses have "LTD" appended to the route number. "C" routes are ultra long routes. 5xx LTD

897:

Mumbai Central, Tardeo, Byculla, Mazgaon, Walkeshwar, Chembur, Vikhroli, Malabar Hill, Ferry Wharf, August Kranti Maidan, Mazgaon, Mahul, Chunabhatti, Mahalakshmi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Grant Road, Pydhonie, Navy Nagar, Mantralaya, Tardeo, Fort, Worli, Cumbala Hill, Antop Hill,

300:

in November 1905 to generate electricity for its trams and positioned it to also supply electricity to the city and re-branded itself to "Bombay Electric Supply & Tramways (BEST)" Company. In 1926, BEST also became an operator of motor buses. In 1947, the BEST became an undertaking of the

8325:

The fares vary depending on the type. Paper tickets are valid only for single journey. Commuters have the option to buy a daily pass, distance-wise bus pass values and zonal pass. Students are eligible for discounts on monthly and quarterly passes and senior citizens for discounts on weekly,

584:

A new era for BEST began in 2019 when it revised its fare and increased bus fleet by inducting non-AC and AC buses on wet lease. Passenger numbers which were all-time low started to increase and in 2020 it achieved its passenger numbers which it had in 2012. Since 2019, BEST revenue has also

7536:

Route - Juhu Beach, Linking Road, Hill Road, St. Andrew's Church, Bandra Bandstand, Bandra-Worli Sealink, Worli, Siddhivinayak Temple, Prabhadevi, Nehru Planetarium, Mahalaxmi, Haji Ali Dargah, Pedder Road, Babulnath, Girgaon Chowpatty, Marine Lines, Churchgate, Museum, Gateway of India.

1646:. BEST supplements suburban rails, metro rail and monorail in the Mumbai region. It is for this reason that BEST always gives priority for feeder routes over other routes. BEST uses CNG, electric and diesel-powered buses for its operation. BEST introduced Air-conditioned buses in 1998. 8477:

6 million ($ 137,535) worth of fifty rupee notes, through its fare collection system. This has led a unique situation wherein it has accumulated a surplus of short change. In July 2005, the company floated tender inquiries to 54 banks to exchange the loose change, which totalled

403:(England) applied for a license to supply electricity to the city. The "Brush Electrical Engineering Company" was its agent. It got "The Bombay Electric License" on 31 July 1905 signed by Bombay Tramways Company, the Bombay Municipality and its agent, the Brush Electrical Company. 7333:

Bandra Bus Station (East) - Kalanagar - MMRDA or Family Court - RBI - Income Tax Office - Tata Colony - Bharat Nagar - ICICI Bank - Diamond Market - Citi Bank - BKC Telephone Exchange - Anjanabai Magar - Kurla Depot - Nehru Nagar (LTT SCLR) - Buddha Colony - Kurla Bus Station (W)

701:

Mostly all BEST buses are painted in standard original red colour with "BEST" logo in English and Marathi. There are different coloured stripes on these buses to indicated some features and type of fuel the bus uses. The following are the different stripes and its meaning :-

464:

service. The main factor against its introduction was the high accident rate for a similar service in London. After years of debate, the company came to a decision on 10 February 1926, to start a bus service later that year. Bombay saw its first bus run on 15 July 1926 between

561:

With the renaming of the city from Bombay to Mumbai in 1995, the organization was renamed to "Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST)". Following a Supreme Court directive, the company gradually phased out old buses and introduced new buses which complied with the

9027: 518:

1947. By mutual agreement, the corporation also took over the operation of the bus services, which was run by the Bombay Electric Supply & Transport Company. Thus, "Bombay Electric Supply & Tramways Company" was renamed "Bombay Electric Supply & Transport".

427:

In 1905, "Bombay Electric Supply & Tramway Company Limited" (B.E.S.T.) was formed. The B.E.S.T. Company was granted the monopoly for electric supply and the running of an electric tram service in the city. It bought the assets of the Bombay Tramway Company for

8286:

Since 2019, BEST has introduced conductor-less AC & non-AC buses where passengers have to buy the ticket before boarding the bus or on bus stops. However this is a test project and many passengers as well as staff are not satisfied with this new test project.

8268:

Sometimes there are ladies special buses which are deployed during peak hours. Boards are fixed on windows of bus reading 'Ladies Special'. Since 2019, BEST runs special Tejaswini livery buses which are in yellow and pink colour specially for women passenger.

8244:

These bus routes are air conditioned and serve under Chalo Bus brand. These buses are reserved, with passengers requiring to book tickets through Chalo App only. No standees allowed and these routes are only operated during peak hours. Their livery is unique.

7565:

Route - C.S.M.T, J.J Flyover, Jijamata Udyan (Zoo), Mahalaxmi, Haji Ali, Tardeo, Pedder Road, Babulnath, Girgaon Beach, Marine Lines, N.C.P.A, Vidhan Bhavan, Gateway of India, Asiatic Library, Reserve Bank of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus .

867:

Backbay, Nariman Point, Churchgate, Byculla, Colaba, Antop Hill, Sion, Kurla, Mahul, Mantralaya, Malabar Hill, Nepean Sea Road, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Gateway of India, Charni Road, Opera House (Girgaon), Tardeo, Sewree, Ballard Pier

1678:

region like 706 LTD and 720 LTD. Buses number 3xx most likely cater to eastern suburbs. Buses numbered 2xx mostly serve western suburbs. Buses numbered 1xx mostly serve central suburbs. Buses numbered from 1 to 99 mostly serve South Mumbai (SoBo).

537:(AC). The company launched its services in the eastern suburbs in 1955. That year, the Undertaking and private operators went to court with BEST asking for a complete closure of the private companies. The case dragged on for four years before the 9122: 7366:

Magathane Bus Depot - Devipada - National Park Metro Station - Nancy Colony - Gartan Pada (Dahisar East Metro Station) - Dahisar Toll Plaza - Kashimira - Silver Park - Jangid Circle - Sheetal Nagar MTNL - Mira Road Railway Station (East)

609:

The "Chief Engineer – Electric Supply" (CEES) is in-charge of material testing and the Standards, Meters and Relays and the Review departments. Two "Chief Engineer – Distribution" (CED) officials manage the two administrative zones.

9019: 399:(BMC) should waive its right to take over the tramways, which was to take place in 1901 according to the Bombay Tramways Act. Instead, the BMC decided to take over the company, but was met with several legal problems. In 1904 the 957:

Wadala, Dadar (E), Sewree, Chandivali (Andheri (E)), Parel, Worli, Malabar Hill, Nepean Sea Road, Fort, Colaba, Reay Road, Antop Hill, Breach Candy, Byculla (W), Dadar (W), Bandra (W), Borivali (E), Chembur, Malad (W), Ghansoli

8993: 440:

group began purchasing power and by 1925, all power generation was outsourced from Tata. The passing years aggravated the problem of rush-hour traffic and to ease the situation, double-decker trams were introduced in September

308:

BEST operates one of India's largest fleets of buses. The bus transport service covers the entire city and also extends its operations outside city limits into neighbouring urban areas. In addition to buses, it also operates a

9092: 994:

Andheri (E), Marol, Chandivali, Sahar, Maroshi, MBP (Millenium Business Park) - Mahape, Airoli, Bhayandar Rly Station (E), Colaba Depot, Pydhonie, Worli, Powai, Mulund (W), Versova, Ghatkopar (W), Sahar, Thane (W), Vihar Lake

8193:

These buses travel on select routes covering railway station; metro station and the central business districts. These routes are identified by the route number in white on a red background. The route number ends with 'SPL'.

9287: 9061: 1169:

Santacruz (E), Kurla (W), BKC, Vidyavihar (W), Malabar Hill, Nepean Sea Road, Dadar (W), Santacruz (E), Bandra (E), Vihar Lake, Vile Parle (E), Andheri (E), Andheri (W), Sahar Cargo Complex, Vashi (APMC Market), Nerul

481:. The bus fare for the same journey was 25 paise. In response to the pleas made by the Government and the Bombay Municipal Corporation, the company extended its services to the northern part of the city in 1934. The 8482:

46.7 million ($ 1.07m). However, none of the banks sent in a single bid, some citing that their vaults are full, and others saying it would be unprofitable for low denominations, given security considerations.

8963: 8182:

Buses on these routes stop only at major stops and skip all the minor stops in between on high volume routes. They are identified by the route number in red on a white background. The route number ends with 'LTD'.

11423: 8456:

5 million ($ 114,575). Newer management techniques, such as retrenching of excess staff (494 till date), and the closure of less patronised routes, have reduced the losses in recent years, from a high of

7232:. Operated from Monday to Saturday except for Sundays and Public Holidays for BKC routes, rest routes operated everyday. These routes connect railway & metro stations to business & residential areas. 927:

Worli, Dadar (W), Prabhadevi, Parel, Mulund (W), Fort, Ferry Wharf, Versova, Mantralaya, Wadala (E), Colaba, Navy Nagar, Sewree, Airoli, Prabhadevi Stn (W), Antop Hill, Santacruz (W), Backbay, Chunabhatti

12010: 8545:. It also plans to connect all its electricity meters through a network, so that the readings can be taken remotely, and in realtime, thus obviating the need for monthly manual door-to-door inspection. 8517:

A memento for the Administrative Report and Statement of Accounts of the Undertaking for the year 1983–84 awarded by the selection committee nominated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

12015: 301:

Municipal Corporation and rebranded itself to "Bombay Electric Supply & Transport (BEST)". In 1995 the organisation was renamed to "Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST)" alongside

9114: 1235:

Santacruz (W), Khar (W), JVPD, Juhu, Dahisar (E), Dahisar (W), Worli, Colaba, Fort, Malabar Hill, Churchgate, Vile Parle (W), Andheri (W), Borivali (W), Jogeshwari (E), Chembur (E), Trombay, Juhu

1024:

Bandra (E), BKC, Sion, Dharavi, Navy Nagar, Mantralaya, Mazgaon, Bhuleshwar, Mulund (W), Kurla (W), Santacruz (E), Kalina, Borivali (E), Thane (Hiranandani Estate), Mulund (Maharana Pratap Chowk)

8204:

These buses travel on ultra long routes which are very high in demand by passengers. These routes are identified by route number in red on a yellow background. The route number starts with 'C'.

12360: 8362:

conglomerate. The power cables are laid underground, which reduces pilferage and other losses that plague most other parts of India. The nominal rating of power supplied by BEST is 3-phase, 50

8529:

The award for the Best Passenger-Safety performance in Urban Transport in the whole country instituted by the Association of State Road Transport Undertaking (ASRTU) for the year 1995–96.

9306: 8985: 9084: 662:

As of May 2023, BEST has a fleet of 3,228 buses which includes BEST-owned buses and buses on wet lease. The fleet comprises 525 diesel single-decker buses, 2,250 CNG buses, 406

493:. To remain solvent, the company decided to introduce discounted fares for short routes, and increase its coverage to the northern portions of the city. In 1937, the introduction of 40: 8172:

Ordinary routes are the most common, with buses on these routes stopping at all stops. Buses traveling on these routes are identified by a white route number on a black background.

574:

had started accepting cashless smart cards for automatic fare collection in BEST buses. BEST currently has over 3000 buses in its fleet and plans to increase the number of buses.

420: 9963: 1053:

Bandra (E), BKC, Sion, Cotton Green, Dharavi, Dadar (W), Ballard Pier, Mulund (W), Trombay, Mira Road Rly Stn (E), Bhayander Rly Station (E), Ferry Wharf, Matunga (W), Mahim (W)

12789: 12535: 11521: 1206:

Bandra (W), Bandra (E), Khar (W), Mahim (W), CBD Belapur Bus Stn, Malabar Hill, Colaba, Backbay, Dahisar (E), Malad (E), Ghatkopar (W), Vikhroli (W), Mulund (W), Mahul Village

9053: 11458: 313:

in the northern reaches of the city. The electricity division of the organisation is also one of the few electricity departments in India to garner an annual gross profit.

8955: 12353: 12496: 12126: 8541:

Among its future plans is the "digitisation project", wherein all underground cables, sub-stations, street lights and bus-stops would be tracked digitally through the

9210: 9144: 489:

led to regular service disruptions, leading to the company incurring huge losses in 1929. The next year was a particular bad year for the company in the wake of the

751:

In April 2022, it came up with 100% digital buses with a ‘Tap in and Tap out’ ticketing system, making Mumbai the first city in India to get fully digital buses.

11944: 12346: 12182: 8258:

East-west connectors: These are the routes, which run east/west, where railways have no role to play and connect the western suburb with the eastern suburb.

10358: 1717:

killing six people. In August 2006, BEST introduced payphone system and CCTVs on its buses as a response to terror attacks on the city's buses and trains.

9236: 1163:

37, 62, A310 Double Decker, A311, 313, 318, 320, 322, 323, 330L, A332 Double Decker, 365, 413, A415 Double Decker,426, 446, A507L, A517L, 613, 618, BKC-2

717:

5. Black, Yellow and Green strip- it indicates that a AC CNG bus is converted into non AC CNG bus. (They were earlier Purple coloured King Long AC buses)

11453: 7382:. As of March 2023, Chalo premium reserved buses are operated on Airport routes. With effect from 24 May 2024, the Chalo Bus services have been stopped. 10271: 8908: 1264:

Goregaon (W), Jogeshwari (W), Sewri, Worli, Dahisar (W), Juhu, Andheri (W), Mulund (W), Bhandup (W), Ghatkopar (E), Goregaon (E), Bhayandar Rly Stn (E)

12467: 12452: 12131: 8424:

15142.2 million from its electricity department, and 839.18 crore from its transport department. Profits from its electricity department totalled

395:

Company applied to the municipality, for operation of electrically operated trams. Due to the high investment required, the company suggested that the

9610: 337:, during which Bombay had made vast strides in its economy by supplying cotton and textiles to the world market. On 27 November 1871, a notice in the 10974: 9352: 1445:

Kurla (E), Sion, Anik, Chunabhatti, Mahul Village, Dahisar (E), Trombay, Airoli, Churchgate, Wadala (E), Dadar, Mazgaon, Sion, Cuffe Parade, Girgaon

1140:

Jogeshwari (E), Andheri (E), Seepz, Worli, Dadar (W), Vidya Vihar (W), Vashi, Kurla (W), Sahar Airport, Vikhroli (W), Bhandup (W), Airoli, Thane (W)

326:

The idea of a mass public transport system for Bombay was first put forward in 1865 by an American company, which applied for a licence to operate a

8500:

criticism, resulting in the red colour being retained. Bus drivers and conductors have come in for praise in the media for their service during the

8234:

These bus routes are air conditioned and serve Mumbai Darshan. These routes are identified by word 'HOHO' written. Their livery is a little unique.

12546: 11468: 9535: 8224:

These bus routes are air conditioned and serve the International Airport. These routes are identified by route number with word 'AIRPORT' written.

1532:

Shivaji Nagar, Govandi (W), Chembur (W), Goregaon (E), Mumbai Central, Churchgate, Fort, Bandra (W), Mahim, Chembur Colony, Kurla (E), Chembur (E)

861:

3, C-10 Exp, 25L, 100, 106, A3, A6, A25, A106, 112, A112, 115, A115, A116, A120, A121, 122, 134, A134, A136, A137, A138, 8SPL, 9SPL, HO-HO Service

333:

system. Although a licence was granted, the project was never realized due to the prevailing economic depression in the city due to the end of the

12389: 11413: 10418: 1351:

Gorai, Borivali (W), Andheri (W), Dahisar (W), Dahisar (E), Goregaon (E), Andheri (E), Mulund (W), Mahim (W), Santacruz (W), Ghatkopar (W), Madh

9673: 12809: 12804: 12571: 11483: 11403: 10869: 1630:

BEST bus routes are spread citywide and to neighboring cities. BEST operates inter-city services to three areas beyond the municipal limits of

1561:

Ghatkopar (W), Ghatkopar (E), Vihar Lake, Chandivali, Kannamwar Nagar, Vashi (APMC Market), Nerul, Kalamboli, Borivali (E), Andheri (E), Thane

1082:

Chandivali (Andheri (E)), Borivali (E), Dahisar (E), Ghatkopar (E), Kandivali (E), Thane, Mira Road Rly Station (E), Bhayandar Rly Station (E)

8504:, when they ensured that all the stranded passengers were dropped safely to their respective destinations. A total of 900 buses were damaged. 12794: 12784: 12111: 10336: 8590: 8796: 12645: 12620: 12550: 12489: 12471: 12463: 10952: 12715: 12177: 11937: 8282:

AC feeder routes: These routes feed the railway stations and metro stations either from the residential complexes or business districts.

12652: 12557: 12528: 12459: 12396: 12121: 9705: 1111:

Kandivali (E), Malad (E), Kurla (W), Mulund (W), Goregaon (E), Airoli, Mira Road Rly Stn (E), Mira Road (E), Bhayandar Rly Station (E)

11838: 11644: 11639: 10839: 8293:

The aforementioned routes are further classified into types depending on the number of stops the bus takes and the type of bus used.

8255:

Feeder Routes: These routes feed the railway stations and metro stations either from the residential complexes or business districts.

432:

9,850,000. Two years later in 1907, the first electric tram debuted in the city. Later that year, a 4,300 kilowatts (5,800 hp)

12589: 12585: 12431: 12215: 11393: 10505: 10351: 7286:

Hotel - BKC Telephone Exchange - Anjanabai Magar - Kurla Depot - Nehru Nagar (LTT SCLR) - Buddha Colony - Kurla Bus Station (West)

1619:

Mulund (W), Thane, Mulund (E), Bandra (W), Sewree, Nahur, Vashi Rly Stn, Nerul Bus Stn, Mira Road Rly Stn (E), Andheri (E), Sahar

12503: 12482: 12478: 12193: 11614: 10564: 9261: 711:

3. White strip- these are also run on diesel but are procured under MUTP-II and MUTP-III. (By 2023 these types will be scrapped)

254: 17: 9183: 12779: 12659: 12542: 12410: 11985: 11930: 11589: 10957: 10942: 10937: 10874: 10459: 10398: 9421: 8214:

These bus routes are air conditioned, they can be ordinary, limited or point to point. The route number starts with 'A or AS'.

7935:

Fully Reserved bus route operated only during peak hours, and the only BEST bus to go through Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL)

1105:

282, A287, A288, 289, A300, 326, 327, 342, 343, 344, 346, 347, 349, 398L, 447, 451, 452, 523L, 601, 624, 646, 705L, 718L, A624

838:

Colaba, Chht. Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Fort, Churchgate, Malabar Hill, Nariman Point, Girgaon, Andheri (E), Bandra (W), Mahul

605:

are overseen by an 'assistant general manager (Traffic Operation)'. A 'Depot Manager' or 'Dy. Depot Manager' heads each depot.

12824: 12613: 12510: 11797: 11511: 11398: 10247: 9841: 406: 11823: 10475: 10175: 10151: 10127: 10103: 10079: 10055: 10031: 9370: 9157: 8850: 8824: 8770: 8744: 8718: 8666: 8640: 7492:

On September 9, 2022 BEST announced an advance ticket reservation system for its airport bus service through the Chalo App

1380:

Malad (W), Malvani, Madh, Mulund (W), Sahar, Andheri (W), Dahisar (E), Mahim (W), Juhu, Powai, Goregaon (E), Bhayander (E)

90: 12666: 12445: 12116: 12065: 10947: 10485: 10454: 10344: 10199: 8876: 8585: 8444:

1408 million ($ 32.3m) from the electricity department alone. However, its transport department is expected to earn

8276:

AC express routes: These route runs on western and eastern express highways, to provide faster services to the commuters.

10223: 9758: 7551:

Route - Gateway of India, C.S.M.T, J.J Flyover, Jijamata Udyan (Zoo), Parel, Dadar, Mahim, Bandra, SV Road, Juhu Beach.

1503:

Chembur (E), Trombay, Mankhurd, Anushakti Nagar, Borivali (E), Govandi (E), Kharghar, Nerul, Fort, Mahul Village, Sahar

12774: 12701: 12687: 12564: 12146: 12136: 11767: 11659: 11649: 10521: 10490: 10388: 10007: 9983: 9635: 8692: 1710: 1687: 12593: 12578: 12403: 12045: 12030: 11609: 11566: 11201: 11104: 10444: 10393: 400: 8374:

area, and not the suburbs. It provides power to 5 million residential and commercial establishments and over 33,000

8264:

Loop routes: Normally BEST routes are point to point, but there are some routes in the city which are one way loops.

1018:

2L, 11L, 27, 87L, 164, 303, C-305 Exp, 310, 313, 311, 316, 317, BKC-1, BKC-3, BKC-21 (AC), BKC-22 (AC), BKC-23 (AC)

12814: 12680: 12638: 12517: 11571: 11526: 11506: 11418: 11388: 11324: 11266: 10894: 10773: 10500: 10495: 10480: 10413: 9324: 1287:

4L, A32, 84L, 200, 221, A203, A221, 223L, A235, 242, A248, 251, A252, 254, A257, 266, A251, A254, A266, A626, A627

8520:

The first place and the Best production achievement award in the category of urban transport for the year 1986–87.

521:

As the company grew, it increased its fleet from 242 to 582 buses over the next decade. In 1949, it took over the

12769: 12747: 12708: 12673: 11438: 11114: 10899: 10526: 10449: 10423: 10408: 10403: 8511:

The prize for the second best production achievement by an urban transport body in the country for the year 1982.

1714: 1555:

A185, A325, A381, A385, A394, A397, A419, A421, A427, A430, A453, A470L, A481, A494, A499, 511L, 533L, C-53 Exp

1474:

Antop Hill, Wadala (E), Matunga (E), Borivali (E), Colaba, Churchgate, Mazgaon, Malabar Hill, Kurla (E), Airoli

689:

to replace the existing diesel double-decker fleet. The target is to have a 100 percent electric fleet by 2027.

12799: 12141: 12085: 12020: 11975: 11516: 11271: 11119: 11007: 10531: 10428: 10366: 12424: 12080: 11828: 11594: 11541: 11531: 11496: 11334: 10909: 10879: 10743: 9307:"Tap-in/tap-out ticketing to start this week, BEST passengers will have to board bus from front; watch video" 8542: 12819: 12208: 12075: 12070: 12050: 12035: 11995: 11556: 11551: 11408: 10988: 10829: 10799: 10279: 9614: 8916: 482: 396: 12417: 12322: 12172: 12060: 12055: 12040: 12025: 11291: 10819: 10635: 10557: 9972: 8290:

Since 2021, BEST has partnered with Chalo app, providing Chalo smart cards and app based ticket booking.

1650:

numbered buses connect Navi Mumbai with Mumbai. Some buses like A-504, 504 LTD, and C 53 Exp plies till

1590:

Vikhroli (W), Ghatkopar (W), Bhandup (W), Kanjurmarg (W), Hiranandani Bus Depot, Borivali (E), Pydhonie,

581:

The A/C bus "AS-4" from Oshiwara Depot to Backbay Depot was the route with the highest revenue for BEST.

571: 407:

1905–1947: Bombay Electric Supply & Tramway Company Limited, introduction of electric trams and buses

359:

service in the city. On 9 May 1874, the first horse-drawn tram made its début in the city, plying on the

11874: 11833: 11463: 11378: 11363: 11276: 11062: 10919: 10864: 10374: 8943:. Transportation Division, Bureau of foreign and domestic commerce, Washington D.C. 1936. p. 226d. 8565: 988:

22L, 39, A186, 307, 333, 334, 335, 340, 435, 443, 522L, 706L, A337, A338, A340, A441, A442, A443, A434

624: 12729: 12317: 12090: 11772: 11241: 11145: 11109: 9680: 8570: 1345:

A202, A203, A206, A208, A226, A240, A244, A245, A246, A247, A259, A269, A277, A294, A345, 460L, 461L

310: 9288:"Mumbai To Become First City In The Country To Get 100% Digital Buses With Tap In, Tap Out Facility" 8495:

BEST has been a quintessential part of life in Mumbai. The red double-decker buses, modelled on the

8261:

Trunk routes: These routes run south–north through the city and are almost parallel to the railways.

11777: 11634: 11261: 11221: 11181: 10763: 10758: 9453: 8575: 526: 12223: 11922: 8938: 744:

In late 2019, BEST began operating air-conditioned mini-buses and midi-buses that were hired on a

556: 12694: 12201: 12151: 11957: 11910: 11843: 11674: 11473: 11301: 11176: 11002: 10932: 10927: 10605: 9736: 9329: 8555: 4380:

Operated till Andheri Station (West) on Down Route and until Borivali Station (West) on Up Route

132: 12338: 7577:

The following is a list of the premium bus routes operated by BEST under banner of Chalo Bus in

1409:

Malad (W), Sainath Marg, Anand Marg, Marve Beach, Madh Island, Chunabhatti, Sion, Goregaon (W),

639: 12000: 11980: 11782: 11561: 11546: 11501: 11448: 11256: 11099: 11087: 11082: 11077: 11072: 10983: 10789: 10753: 10550: 9561: 9310: 646: 538: 346: 122: 9481: 448:

B E S & T Co. Ltd. 1 Anna Token Booklet with advertisement of Bombay Mutual Life Insurance

11732: 11654: 11329: 11319: 11171: 11160: 11067: 11057: 11052: 11047: 11042: 11037: 11032: 11027: 10997: 10993: 10854: 10809: 9951: 1558:

Ghatkopar Depot, Ghatkopar Bus Stn., Ghatkopar Stn (E), Ghatkopar Stn (W), Kannamwar Nagar 2

1322:

Kandivali (W), Borivali (W), Dahisar (W), Juhu, Andheri (W), Malwani, Malad (E), Andheri (E)

293: 9211:"BEST finally gets go-ahead for 1,250 new buses on wet-lease | Mumbai News - Times of India" 8350:

Power, supplied by the Tata Group is brought to the city across creeks in pylons like these.

12627: 11990: 11604: 11491: 11373: 11236: 11216: 11211: 11196: 10969: 10964: 10884: 10655: 9739:). Rs 100 million = 230,000 US$ approx. Exchange rate: Rs. 43.6 = 1 US$ as of 2005-08-27. 1674:

and provide the connection to greater Mumbai and buses numbered 6xx LTD and 7xx LTD serves

663: 444: 11424:

Sydenham Institute of Management Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship Education(SIMSREE)

9587: 8: 11792: 11281: 10904: 10675: 10665: 10660: 10314: 10295: 9648: 1293:

Jogeshwari (W), Andheri (W), Versova, Mazgaon, Mahim, Worli, Wadala, Kandivali (E), JVPD

951:

14B, 25L, 40L, 57, 69, 77, 151, 165, 168, 174, 212, 217, 411, C-440 Exp, A440, C-521 Exp

534: 1613:

A391, A396L, A402, A403, A409L, A412, A414, A423, A493, A484, 512L, C-61 Exp, C-513 Exp

708:

2. Grey strip- it indicates the bus is run on Diesel. (These types are almost scrapped)

12261: 11702: 11536: 11166: 10590: 9886: 9786: 9721: 9469: 8580: 8501: 8380: 1108:

Dindoshi Depot, Goregaon Stn , Kandivali Bus Stn., Shivshahi Prakalp, N.N.P, Gokuldham

894:

Mumbai Central Depot, Ferry Wharf, Jijamata Udyan, Vasantrao Naik Chk., Byculla Stn. ,

522: 512: 505: 486: 334: 9801:

Albuquerque, Olav (6 July 2005). "You could now approach BEST for some loose change".

1200:

80L, 211, 214, 215, 219, 220, 222, 225, 321L, 422, 473, C-55 Exp, C-86 Exp, C-505 Exp

1076:

A209, 297, 298, A301, A477, 498L, 524L, A698, C-700 Exp, A701, A702, 703L, 709L, 710L

11869: 11818: 11684: 11679: 11599: 11311: 11251: 10859: 10748: 10708: 10600: 10582: 9699: 9187: 667: 631: 494: 9448: 9425: 8514:

The second prize for production achievement in Urban Transport during the year 1984.

1439:

A5, 58, A59, 75, 85, 181, A341, A360, A361, A362, 363, A367, A369, A377, A431, A432

12438: 12266: 12245: 11707: 11433: 11296: 10824: 10794: 10645: 9054:"BEST inks Rs 3,675 crore deal, India's biggest, to get 2,100 e-buses in 12 months" 8251:

The routes operated by BEST can be broadly classified in the following categories.

7500:

The following is a list of the hop in hop off (HOHO) bus route operated by BEST in

732: 694: 672: 578:

Cerita services on certain routes but due to high maintenance it got discontinued.

490: 9816: 9396: 9115:"Switch Mobility unveils India's first electric double-decker air-conditioned bus" 9085:"Country's first electric double-decker bus launched on CSMT-NCPA route in Mumbai" 8986:"9 lakh govt vehicles, buses older than 15 yrs to be scrapped from Apr 1: Gadkari" 726:

2. Yellow and Black livery to indicate that the bus is hybrid and given by MMRDA.

12521: 12327: 12291: 12286: 12276: 11898: 11787: 11443: 11428: 11246: 11155: 11150: 11094: 10979: 10844: 10804: 10733: 10640: 10610: 9976: 8496: 1655: 686: 470: 368: 9374: 9161: 8436:

62.04 crore ($ 14.2m). For the financial year 2005–06, BEST is expected to earn

1497:

A21, A26 Exp, A92, A364, A380, A382, 399L, 502L, 504L, A663, C-21 Exp, A-60 Exp

12722: 12296: 12281: 12271: 12231: 11953: 11694: 11231: 11226: 11186: 11140: 11012: 10849: 10738: 9875: 8801: 1675: 1643: 1639: 557:

1995–present: Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport, recent developments

542: 530: 339: 249: 9719:

Albuquerque, Olav (8 July 2005). "Short of funds, BEST looks to solar power".

8507:

The organisation has received the following awards for safety and management:

8279:

AC standard routes: These are air-conditioned ordinary routes across the city.

3570:

The following is a list of the air conditioned bus routes operated by BEST in

1021:

Dharavi Depot, Bandra Rly Ter , Bandra Colony Bus Stn., Santacruz Rly Stn (E)

891:

42, A49, A63, A77, A102, A104, A105, A123, A126, A132, A135, A154, A155, A351

566:

pollution control standards. On 19 November 2004, route SPL-8 travelling from

292:

company called "Bombay Tramway Company Limited". The company set up a captive

12763: 11762: 11722: 11344: 11135: 11017: 10814: 10615: 10255: 9845: 8375: 8370:. Unlike the transport company, the electricity department services only the 613:

undertaking's daily operations. The committee has a staggered two-year term.

474: 466: 198: 10183: 10159: 10135: 10111: 10087: 10063: 10039: 10015: 9991: 9536:"Travelling to Mumbai airport? Now BEST will let you book ticket in advance" 8854: 8828: 8774: 8748: 8722: 8696: 8670: 8644: 8461:

1.75 billion ($ 40.1m) in 2001. Daily earnings from its transport system is

1348:

Gorai Depot, Borivali Stn. , P. Thakre Nagar Bus Stn., Kandharpada Bus Stn.

347:

1873–1905: Bombay Tramway Company Limited, introduction of horse-drawn trams

12005: 11802: 11712: 11339: 11286: 11206: 11022: 10889: 10834: 10768: 10728: 10723: 10650: 8560: 8306: 1691: 343:

newspaper found to be too expensive and the tender was promptly abandoned.

214: 10207: 8880: 8305:

Single journey (paper ticket issued by the bus conductor and validated by

1584:

7L, 331, 386, 387, 416, 418, 478L, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607, 608, 612

1529:

Shivaji Nagar Depot, Shivaji Nagar Terminus, Dr. Ambedkar Udyan (Chembur)

11961: 11879: 11864: 11191: 10718: 10713: 10698: 10231: 9762: 8384: 8371: 1651: 1635: 1631: 723:

1. Full grey coloured "Safety is our Motto" in red or white text livery.

550: 500: 433: 384: 372: 305:. It now operates as an autonomous body under the Municipal Corporation. 285: 185: 154: 110: 98: 82: 8428:

152.82 crore (US$ 35m), and losses in its transport department totalled

7467:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Domestic Terminal 1)

1050:

KalaKilla Depot, Dharavi Depot, Bandra Rly Ter , Bandra Colony Bus Stn.

1047:

46, 52, 63, 66, 176, 352, 463, A-C42 Exp, C-71 Exp, C-72 Exp, C-302 Exp

729:

3. Yellow and Pink livery to indicate ladies special 'Tejaswini' buses.

39: 27:

Public sector undertaking to supply power and run bus services in Mumbai

12156: 11383: 10870:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum)

10693: 10688: 10683: 10625: 10620: 8452:

1403.0 million ($ 32.26m). This gives it an estimated net loss of

8359: 8355: 7228:

The following is a list of the special ring routes operated by BEST in

6877:

The following is a list of the corridor bus routes operated by BEST in

1229:

28, 51, 79, 83, 201, 203, 224, 231, 339, 355L, 356L, C-1 Exp, C-12 Exp

1073:

Near Tata Steel, Western Express Highway, Borivali (E), Mumbai-400066.

567: 437: 223: 142: 8473:

4.8 million ($ 110,000) worth of ten and twenty rupee notes, and

8272:

AC standard routes: These are air-conditioned routes across the city.

7417:

Only BEST Bus going on Bandra-Worli Sea Link.Not operational anymore.

7378:

The following is a list of the airport bus routes operated by BEST in

6007:

The following is a list of the limited bus routes operated by BEST in

1666:

with Mumbai. Buses numbered 4xx mostly like 496 LTD and 497 LTD serve

921:

44, 50, 56, A82, A89, 110, A124, 125, A162, A167, A171, 354, C-54 Exp

601:

The company is headed by a general manager, currently Lokesh Chandra.

541:

granted the organisation a complete monopoly over bus services in the

452: 77:

1905 as Bombay Electric Supply & Tramways Company Limited (BEST) (

11752: 11742: 11727: 11717: 10703: 10630: 10595: 9291: 8408:

Electricity revenues: Blue–Income, Red–Expenditure, Green–Net profits

1663: 832:

1, 6L, 103, 108, A111, 113, A115, A138 and A116 (Double Decker), 139

745: 461: 380: 327: 280:) is a civic transport and electricity provider public body based in 106: 94: 8956:"BEST's daily bus ridership falls by 2 lakh, fleet size shrinks 11%" 748:. BEST also plans to increase its fleet size to 6,00 buses by 2022. 513:

1947–1995: Bombay Electric Supply & Transport, further expansion

11952: 11757: 11747: 11737: 9424:. Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST). Archived from 8367: 1659: 1526:

8L, A19, A350, A357, 372, A375, A376, A379, A383, A404, A488, 489L

1134:

35, 308, 319, 332, 333, 392, 410, 415, 428, 492L, 496L, 525L, 545L

563: 411: 376: 353: 70: 8412: 8404: 8396: 864:

Backbay Depot, Navy Nagar, Colaba Bus Stn., Ahilyabai Holkar Chk.

593: 12368: 11859: 9958: 9262:"New & cool: BEST begins 12 new AC services in town, Andheri" 8612:

Quarterly journal of the Local Self Government Institute (Mumbai)

1616:

Mulund Depot, Mulund Stn. (W), Mulund Bus Stn. , Mhada Bus Stn.

364: 48: 10542: 8627:

Mumbai, the city of dreams: a history of the first city in India

948:

Tilak Road, Opp. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar College, Wadala, Mumbai

419: 12631: 11669: 10573: 9946: 8335: 7578: 7501: 7379: 7349:

MMRDA or Family Court - Kalanagar - Bandra Bus Station (East).

7304:

MMRDA or Family Court - Kalanagar - Bandra Bus Station (East).

7229: 6878: 6008: 3571: 1729: 1699: 1667: 1374:

A180, 207, 241, A256, A273, A359, A456, 459L, A620, A621, A622

705:

1. Yellow and Green strip- it indicates the bus is run on CNG.

360: 302: 297: 281: 181: 177: 165: 57: 9969: 8346: 1728:

The following is a list of the bus routes operated by BEST in

1698:

operate at regular intervals across the shallow creek linking

1203:

Bandra Bus Stn. , Mahim Bus Stn., Bandra Reclamation Bus Stn.

264: 12370: 12226: 11459:

Ramniranjan Anandilal Podar College of Commerce and Economics

10369: 8526:

Award for the best passenger-safety record for the year 1994.

8363: 1703: 1695: 1671: 720:

Best has some special livery buses too with BEST logo on it.

659:

In 1936, the company owned 433 tram vehicles and 128 busses.

478: 388: 105:

1995 as Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST) (

9020:"Most BEST double-decker buses to be phased out by year end" 8469:

7 million ($ 160,450) worth of five rupee coins daily,

1468:

9, 14, 15, 43, 60, 67, 88, 169, 172, 255L, 312, 348L, 501L

1232:

Santacruz Depot, Juhu Vile Parle Bus Stn., Santacruz Stn.

714:

4. Silver strip- it indicates the bus is electric powered.

460:

Since 1913, the company had been pondering over starting a

356: 330: 289: 137: 78: 12127:

Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited

1442:

Anik Depot, Kurla Bus Stn. East, Chunabhatti Bus Terminus

8432:

212.86 crore ($ 48.8m), giving the company a net loss of

8145: