Mumbai : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated 157 newly inducted electric buses under the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) initiative on Monday, marking a significant stride toward eco-friendly urban mobility in Mumbai.
Speaking at the event, CM Fadnavis said the addition of these electric buses will make daily commutes cleaner, safer, and more comfortable for nearly three lakh passengers. “Once trams and horse-drawn buggies ran in Mumbai; now, air-conditioned and environment-friendly electric buses symbolize the city’s progress toward green energy,” he remarked.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable transport, Fadnavis announced that all BEST buses will gradually be converted into eco-friendly vehicles. He also noted that while public transport is not always profit-driven, the government’s focus remains on improving safety and convenience for citizens.
The Chief Minister criticized the previous government for “wasting” the potential of BEST and revealed that his administration had already provided ₹3,400 crore in funding, with an additional ₹1,000 crore sanctioned for this year. He also confirmed that BEST employees received the same Diwali bonus as Municipal Corporation staff.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar, Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar, Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, senior officials Bhushan Gagarani and Sonia Sethi, along with BEST officers and staff.
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