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The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has begun reshaping its operational strategy to align with growing demand near Mumbai Metro and railway stations. Over the past week, officials reported a significant increase in short-distance feeder services, especially around key Metro routes like Lines 2A and 7. Instead of running long traditional bus routes, BEST is focusing on improving last-mile connectivity through mini and midi buses. This transition is backed by passenger data insights and is expected to optimise efficiency and reduce travel time for commuters.
The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has revised its strategy to improve bus services near Metro and railway stations, after observing rising demand around these high-traffic nodes. Officials confirmed earlier this week that there's been a visible shift in the operational roadmap, with an emphasis on short feeder routes that connect major transport hubs. Advertisement
This change comes as part of the growing integration between city bus services and new Metro corridors-particularly Metro Lines 2A (Dahisar West to DN Nagar) and 7 (Dahisar East to Gundavali). Instead of operating longer routes across the city, BEST is now trimming distances and concentrating on high-frequency, short-distance trips to act as last-mile connectors.
According to BEST officials, the data collected from passengers through the Chalo app has played a crucial role in route redesign. It indicated that most commuters now prefer to switch between different modes of transport rather than relying on a single long-haul journey.
One of the notable examples of this strategic change is route 428, which earlier ran between Goregaon Station (West) and Borivli Station (West) via Bangur Nagar. That route has now been cancelled and replaced by a new one from Goregaon West to Bangur Nagar Metro Station, which has seen improved frequency with 26 trips per day using midi buses.
Similarly, mini buses are being deployed to cover internal areas near Metro stations. Route 416, which used to connect Oshiwara Depot to Goregaon Station (West), now only runs up to Bangur Nagar Metro Station. The revised plan is also expected to save fuel and reduce operational costs, while ensuring punctuality and shorter travel durations.
Officials also noted that new routes would be further developed depending on future passenger feedback and travel pattern trends. As one official explained, the ongoing expansion of the Metro network will create more opportunities for integration, and BEST will continue realigning its services accordingly to meet commuter expectations.
As the Metro network continues to expand, aligning bus services with key nodes not only reduces congestion on longer routes but also improves commuter satisfaction. This strategic shift based on real-time commuter data underscores the potential of tech-enabled transit planning. With sustained upgrades and feedback-driven adjustments, BEST appears poised to redefine last-mile connectivity across the city's urban fabric.
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