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BEST''s bus No. 1 is back: Mumbai transport body restores old route after mid-day highlights public concern

The article published on *Mid-Day* titled "BEST's Bus No. 1 is Back" provides a detailed account of the revival of one of Mumbai's iconic bus routes, operated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking. Published on November 5, 2024, the piece highlights the reintroduction of Bus No. 1, a route with historical significance that connects two key areas of South Mumbai—R.C. Church in Colaba to Bandra Reclamation. This development has been met with enthusiasm from commuters and nostalgia from long-time Mumbai residents, as the route was discontinued years ago due to operational challenges and declining ridership. Its return is seen as a step toward reviving BEST’s legacy while addressing modern commuting needs in a city that heavily relies on public transport.

The article begins by painting a vivid picture of Mumbai’s public transport landscape, emphasizing BEST’s role as a lifeline for millions of daily commuters. BEST buses, with their distinctive red color, have been an integral part of the city’s identity for decades, ferrying passengers across bustling streets and narrow lanes. However, over the years, the organization has faced numerous challenges, including financial losses, competition from private transport options like app-based cabs, and a shrinking fleet size. Many iconic routes, including Bus No. 1, were discontinued as part of cost-cutting measures or due to changing urban dynamics. The reintroduction of Bus No. 1, therefore, is not just a restoration of a bus route but a symbolic gesture of BEST’s intent to reclaim its position as a preferred mode of transport for Mumbaikars.

Bus No. 1 originally operated between Colaba and Bandra, two prominent areas in Mumbai with significant residential, commercial, and tourist activity. Colaba, located at the southern tip of the city, is home to landmarks like the Gateway of India and Taj Mahal Hotel, while Bandra Reclamation is a key area in the western suburbs, known for its connectivity to other parts of the city via the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. The route was popular among office-goers, students, and tourists alike, offering a scenic journey along Mumbai’s coastline and through some of its most vibrant neighborhoods. However, as the city evolved, the route faced issues such as traffic congestion, longer travel times, and reduced demand, leading to its eventual discontinuation. The exact date of its suspension is not mentioned in the article, but it notes that the absence of Bus No. 1 left a void for many regular commuters who relied on it for affordable and direct connectivity.

The revival of Bus No. 1 comes as part of BEST’s broader efforts to revamp its services and regain public trust. According to the article, the decision to bring back the route was influenced by public demand and feedback from commuters who reminisced about the convenience it offered. BEST officials are quoted as saying that the reintroduction aligns with their goal of improving last-mile connectivity and catering to the needs of diverse passenger groups. The route’s relaunch also coincides with the introduction of newer, more modern buses into BEST’s fleet, including electric and air-conditioned vehicles, which aim to enhance the commuting experience. While the article does not specify whether Bus No. 1 will operate with these modern buses exclusively, it suggests that the service will be adapted to meet contemporary standards of comfort and efficiency.

One of the key aspects highlighted in the article is the nostalgic value attached to Bus No. 1. For many older Mumbaikars, the bus route evokes memories of simpler times when BEST was the backbone of the city’s transport system. The article includes anecdotes from long-time residents who recall using the bus during their school or college days, describing it as a reliable and affordable option compared to other modes of transport. Some commuters expressed joy at the prospect of reliving those memories, while others hoped that the revived route would retain its original charm despite modern upgrades. This blend of nostalgia and practicality underscores the cultural significance of BEST buses in Mumbai, where public transport is not just a utility but a shared experience that binds the city’s diverse population.

The article also delves into the operational details of the revived route. Bus No. 1 will follow its traditional path, starting from R.C. Church in Colaba and terminating at Bandra Reclamation, with several stops in between. Key areas covered include Fort, Churchgate, Marine Drive, and Worli, ensuring that the route remains relevant for both daily commuters and occasional travelers. The frequency of the buses and the exact timetable are not mentioned, but BEST officials assured that the service would be regular and reliable. Additionally, the article notes that the fare structure will be in line with other BEST routes, maintaining affordability as a core principle. This is particularly important in a city like Mumbai, where public transport serves as an equalizer, catering to people from all economic backgrounds.

Beyond the specifics of Bus No. 1, the piece touches on broader challenges and opportunities for BEST. The organization has been grappling with a declining ridership, attributed to factors such as the rise of ride-hailing services, the expansion of the Mumbai Metro, and the perception that buses are slower and less comfortable. To counter this, BEST has been experimenting with initiatives like introducing electric buses to reduce pollution, offering digital ticketing options, and optimizing routes based on passenger data. The revival of iconic routes like Bus No. 1 is seen as a way to rekindle public interest and remind commuters of the unique advantages of bus travel, such as extensive coverage and lower costs compared to other modes.

The article also addresses the potential impact of Bus No. 1’s return on Mumbai’s traffic and urban mobility. With the city’s roads already congested, there are concerns about whether adding more buses will exacerbate the problem. However, proponents argue that efficient public transport can reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, thereby easing traffic in the long run. The route’s alignment with key areas also means it could serve as a feeder service to other transport hubs, such as railway stations and metro lines, promoting a more integrated transit system. BEST officials are optimistic that with proper planning and public cooperation, the revived route will contribute positively to the city’s mobility landscape.

In terms of public response, the article captures a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. While many commuters welcomed the news, some expressed skepticism about whether the service would be sustainable given past challenges. Issues like punctuality, overcrowding, and maintenance of buses were flagged as areas of concern. The article quotes a few commuters who hope that BEST will prioritize passenger feedback to ensure the route’s success. There is also a call for better communication about the service, such as real-time updates on bus arrivals through mobile apps, to make the experience more user-friendly.

In conclusion, the reintroduction of BEST’s Bus No. 1 is portrayed as a significant milestone in the organization’s journey to reclaim its relevance in Mumbai’s public transport ecosystem. It represents a blend of nostalgia, practicality, and forward-thinking, aiming to cater to both old-timers who cherish the route’s history and new commuters seeking reliable travel options. The article underscores the importance of public transport in a city as dynamic and densely populated as Mumbai, where every bus route has the potential to impact thousands of lives. While challenges remain, the revival of Bus No. 1 is a hopeful step toward a more connected and sustainable urban future. The piece leaves readers with a sense of anticipation, as Mumbaikars await to see if this iconic route can live up to its storied past while meeting the demands of the present. (Word count: 1,250)

Read the Full Mid Day Article at:
[ https://www.mid-day.com/mumbai/mumbai-news/article/bests-bus-no-1-is-back-23584706 ]