MUMBAI: In Mumbai, the smooth operation of BEST bus services faced disruption as contractual employees from a private bus operator initiated a sudden strike. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking experienced service interruptions on various routes due to this flash strike that occurred early in the morning. The employees of the private bus operator, SMT, commonly known as the Daga Group, ceased work at BEST's Ghatkopar and Mulund depots, which are situated in the eastern suburbs. Their primary demand was for a salary hike, leading to disruptions on multiple bus routes.
The BEST undertaking, responsible for public bus services in the metropolis, has engaged the services of several contractors, including the Daga Group, following a wet lease model. Under this arrangement, private operators own the buses and also take on the responsibility of maintenance, fuel, and driver salaries.
As of now, the exact impact on the public transport body's services remains undisclosed due to the flash strike by the private bus operator's employees. Nevertheless, some BEST employees have reported significant disruptions on routes where services were operated using the Daga Group's buses.
The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) service in Mumbai is an essential lifeline for the city's residents, providing efficient and reliable public transportation. Established in 1873 as a tramway service, BEST has evolved over the years into an extensive network of buses, serving millions of commuters daily. With its iconic red buses traversing through the bustling streets of Mumbai, BEST plays a vital role in easing the city's traffic congestion and reducing pollution.
The service covers a wide range of routes, connecting the remotest corners of Mumbai to its bustling business districts, educational institutions, and residential areas. BEST buses are not just a means of transportation but an integral part of the city's culture, with the conductors' friendly banter and the blend of diverse passengers adding to its unique charm. Despite facing challenges like overcrowding and traffic, BEST continues to be the backbone of Mumbai's public transport, catering to the needs of its citizens and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the city's daily life.
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