Mumbai: In the wake of recent BEST bus accidents in Mankhurd and Mulund, the BEST Undertaking has launched a special safety initiative, including a large-scale refresher training programme for approximately 5,200 contract bus drivers operating under the Wet Lease model.In a bid to improve passenger feedback and accountability, BEST will prominently display its toll-free helpline and grievance redressal numbers inside all buses. Commuters can register complaints through the Passenger Complaint Redressal Cell on 8657045008, 1800227550 and 24137937.Taking serious note of the incidents, the Chairman of the BEST Committee and the General Manager convened an emergency meeting with wet lease contractors and directed them to strengthen safety measures, improve operational standards and ensure strict adherence to safe driving practices.As part of the corrective measures, BEST has begun a three-day refresher training campaign focused on defensive driving and road safety. The undertaking plans to cover all wet lease drivers within the next two months. The programme emphasises lane discipline, adherence to speed limits, maintaining safe distances between vehicles, avoiding dangerous lane-cutting manoeuvres and a complete ban on mobile phone use while driving.To bolster the training programme, BEST has deployed three additional electric buses at its Dindoshi Training Centre and plans to add four more buses for practical on-road training exercises.The undertaking has also intensified vehicle maintenance and safety checks. The Engineering Department now conducts comprehensive inspections of contractor-operated buses twice every month, with any defects identified being rectified immediately.BEST officials said transport officers and supervisory staff are regularly conducting awareness programmes for drivers, conductors and passengers on road and passenger safety. The undertaking reiterated its commitment to providing safe, reliable and high-quality public transport services while working towards an accident-free bus network in Mumbai.
