BEST Plans Mumbai Metro Circuit Bus Service to Boost Revenue and Connectivity
The Mumbai Metro circuit bus service, planned by BEST to improve last-mile connectivity and reduce financial losses, will link Metro stations with key residential and commercial areas as part of a broader revenue-generation strategy.
Mumbai, May 2025 — In a strategic move to improve last-mile connectivity and strengthen its financial position, Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) is planning to launch a Mumbai Metro circuit bus service.
The initiative comes after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed the transport body to generate its own revenue and reduce dependency on civic subsidies.
Currently, BEST operates at a substantial loss and depends heavily on financial assistance from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
This year alone, the civic body allocated ₹1,000 crore to sustain BEST’s operations. Following the Chief Minister’s directive, the BMC has also approved a fare hike proposal, and BEST is now focusing on revamping its operations with Metro connectivity at the core of its strategy.
Delhi Launches DEVi Electric Bus Initiative to Boost Last-Mile Connectivity
Connecting Metro Stations to Homes and Offices
The upcoming Mumbai Metro circuit bus service aims to connect Metro stations with key residential and commercial areas, addressing a critical gap in the city’s public transport system. With three Metro corridors now fully operational and one partially active, officials say there is an urgent need to support Metro rail with reliable last-mile options.
A BEST spokesperson confirmed the development, stating, “New routes will be decided based on current needs and demand. A study is underway to finalise the circuit routes.”
Officials added that while BEST already connects local railway stations to various neighborhoods, the expansion to Metro corridors is expected to both increase bus ridership and boost footfall on Metro lines.
EKA Mobility and Chartered Speed to Deploy 675 Electric Buses Across Rajasthan
Fleet Challenges and Wet-Lease Solution
Despite the promising outlook, BEST is grappling with a fleet shortage. Over 400 buses from its current fleet are scheduled for retirement by November 2025.
However, the administration is optimistic. “We are confident we will receive a new fleet of 2,100 wet-lease buses by April 2026. Until then, the Metro circuit services will operate using the available fleet,” the spokesperson added.
AI in the Bus Industry: Transforming Public Transportation for a Safer, Smarter Future
Why the Shift?
BEST’s renewed focus on Metro connectivity is part of a larger restructuring effort to ensure financial viability. The Mumbai Metro circuit bus service will follow a demand-based model, offering targeted routes that enhance commuter convenience and generate steady revenue for the transport body.
As of now, 43 Metro stations across three lines are operational, offering a strong foundation for the circuit bus network.
