Best Rolls Out Refresher Training for 5,200 Contract Drivers After Mumbai Bus Crashes

When a BEST bus stalled on a busy Mankhurd road last week, commuters witnessed a scene that spurred immediate action: a fleet of 5,200 contract drivers will now undergo a mandatory safety refresher course.

Key Points

• BEST has launched a refresher training programme targeting all 5,200 wet‑lease bus drivers operating in Mumbai.
• The initiative follows two high‑profile accidents in the city’s Mankhurd and Mulund suburbs.
• New safety checks will be carried out on buses before they hit the road.
• Dedicated helpline numbers have been displayed at bus stops for passenger complaints and queries.

Impact on Commuters

Daily riders can expect a more visible safety presence on buses, with drivers receiving updated guidance on braking, speed management and passenger handling. The helplines, posted at major stops, give commuters a direct channel to report unsafe driving, vehicle defects or service lapses, aiming to curb repeat incidents.

Background of Recent Accidents

In the past month, two separate collisions involving BEST buses drew public attention. One incident in Mankhurd resulted in multiple injuries after a bus failed to negotiate a sharp turn, while a crash in Mulund saw a vehicle collide with a roadside barrier during heavy rain. Both events highlighted gaps in driver training and vehicle maintenance, prompting city officials to demand swift corrective measures.

What Happens Next

BEST officials say the refresher modules will run over the next six weeks, covering defensive driving, emergency response and passenger safety protocols. Each driver must complete the course before returning to regular routes. Simultaneously, a team of inspectors will conduct random safety audits on buses, ensuring compliance with the new standards.

Commuters are encouraged to use the newly posted helpline numbers to flag any concerns. BEST has pledged to review feedback weekly and take disciplinary action where necessary. The transport board will monitor accident statistics for the next quarter to gauge the programme’s effectiveness.

About the author

Fatima Khan