Mumbai BEST Employees Launch Indefinite Strike; Bus Services Disrupted Across City (Image Internet)
Mumbai: Daily life in Mumbai faced disruptions on Friday after employees of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking began an indefinite strike, pressing for the fulfillment of several long-pending demands. The protest, called by a joint action committee representing multiple employee unions, started at midnight and immediately affected bus services across parts of the city.
The strike has impacted one of Mumbai's key public transport systems. BEST operates nearly 2,700 buses and serves around 25 lakh passengers every day. On Friday morning, commuters reported a visible reduction in the number of BEST buses on roads, leading to concerns about transportation availability during peak hours.
Apart from public transport, BEST also supplies electricity to more than 10 lakh consumers in South Mumbai, raising concerns over possible disruptions if the agitation continues.
Union leaders have placed several demands before the administration. These include the merger of BEST's budget with that of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), implementation of Seventh Pay Commission benefits for the 2016-2026 period, and settlement of pending dues of retired employees.
The unions have also sought recruitment to vacant posts, regular promotions, an end to contractual employment practices, and the absorption of workers currently employed through wet-lease bus operators. Another major demand is the expansion of the fleet through the induction of 5,000 buses under BEST ownership.
In response to the protest, authorities invoked the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA), which prohibits employees engaged in essential services from participating in strikes. Officials stated that necessary arrangements are being made to minimize inconvenience to citizens and maintain critical services.
The administration has warned that prolonged disruption could affect both transportation and electricity services. Meanwhile, Mumbai Police has appealed to protesters to maintain peace and ensure that law and order remain unaffected during the agitation.
