88 Dead in 834 BEST Bus Accidents over 5 Years, Rs42.40 Crore Paid in Compensation
Moneylife Digital Team 13 January 2025
Mumbai's Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) has reported 834 accidents involving its buses over the past five years, resulting in the tragic loss of 88 lives. The administration disclosed this information in response to a query filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act by activist Anil Galgali.
 
The data, provided by senior transport officer Egal Benjamin, revealed that 51 fatalities occurred in accidents involving BEST-operated buses, while private contractors' buses accounted for 37 deaths. The years 22-23 and 23-24 recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 21 deaths each.
 
BEST paid Rs42.40 crore in financial compensation to victims and their families across 494 cases. The year 22-23 witnessed the highest payout, amounting to Rs12.40 crore across 107 cases. Other years saw compensation amounts of Rs9.55 crore (19-20), Rs3.44 crore (20-21), Rs9.45 crore (21-22), and Rs7.54 crore (23-24), information received by Mr Galgali shows.
 
In the wake of these incidents, BEST has taken strict action against its employees. Over the past five years, 12 employees were dismissed in connection with fatal accidents, while two were dismissed for personal injury cases. Additionally, 24 employees faced suspension for their roles in accidents causing personal injuries. Other corrective measures included issuing warnings, recovering damages, and demotions.
 
Mr Galgali emphasised the urgent need for BEST to strengthen its safety protocols and enforce stricter measures to prevent accidents. "These statistics highlight the safety responsibilities of the BEST administration. The data underscores the necessity of heightened precautions by the administration and its employees," he says.
 
The findings raise critical questions about road safety and operational practices, prompting a call for comprehensive reforms to ensure the safety of commuters and pedestrians in Mumbai.
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