With effect from March 1, 2024, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport Undertaking (BEST), which is in charge of running Mumbai’s public bus system, has raised the cost of daily, weekly, and monthly passes significantly.
Price Hike For Mumbai BEST
Effective March 1, rates for daily, weekly, and monthly passes will increase, up to roughly 100% in certain cases, according to the BEST Undertaking, which oversees bus services in the metropolitan area. In the past, BEST had four different pass categories on its Chalo app, each with different pricing based on the number of allowed travels within a given time frame and the single journey rate. Because of this, commuters could select the most affordable alternative for their needs. The increase, according to BEST officials, intends to streamline transactions and strengthen the organization’s financial standing.
For monthly passes, especially those with more visits, the increase is the highest. The daily and monthly unlimited journey pass rates have been raised to Rs 60 and Rs 900, respectively, from the current Rs 50 and Rs 750. There are still worries about how this will affect passengers, particularly those who depend on public transportation for everyday activities. While schoolchildren’s and older citizens’ subsidies are untouched, the aggregate rise puts further strain on household budgets.
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Price Hike Has Garnered Mixed Reactions
Commuters now have some flexibility since the updated pass options can be purchased via the Chalo app and BEST smart card. For many Mumbaikars, the BEST bus is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a way of life. However, there have been differing responses to the large price increase. Many have voiced worries about affordability and questioned the timing and reasoning behind the move. The circumstance emphasises the continuous difficulty of striking a balance between the affordability of public transportation and the financial viability of transportation authorities in significant Indian cities.
According to the mid-day, every day, 25 lakh passengers are transported by BEST, which serves the city and the surrounding suburbs of Thane, Mira Bhayander, and Navi Mumbai. BEST remains an indispensable part of Mumbai’s urban fabric, connecting millions of people and shaping the rhythm of life in the city.
What do you think of this price hike?
Cover image credits: Wikimedia Commons
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