Mumbai’s BEST Records 10 of 12 Fatal Accidents Involving Olectra E-Buses
In a startling revelation, officials from the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport undertaking announced that out of the 12 fatal accidents involving wet-leased electric buses in Mumbai’s civic-run BEST fleet for the current financial year 2024-25, a staggering 10 cases involved Olectra buses. This alarming statistic has raised serious concerns about the safety and operational protocols of these electric vehicles on the city’s roads.
Dec 9 Tragedy in Kurla West Area
The most recent and devastating incident occurred on December 9 when an Olectra bus lost control on a busy arterial road in Mumbai’s Kurla West area. The bus careened into multiple vehicles, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives and leaving over 40 individuals injured. This horrific accident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the safety standards and training practices within the transportation sector.
Rising Number of Accidents and Potential Causes
Data from BEST revealed a concerning trend of escalating accidents involving their buses, with a total of 106 incidents recorded between April 1 and December 9 this year. Of these accidents, 79 were linked to wet-leased buses, while the remaining 27 involved the undertaking’s own fleet. The spike in accidents, compared to previous years, has prompted speculation about the root causes behind these tragic events.
Concerns Raised by Experts and Stakeholders
Experts and stakeholders have voiced apprehensions regarding the inadequate training provided to drivers of wet-leased buses, pointing to this deficiency as a significant contributing factor to the rising number of accidents. Drivers, who undergo only a brief 15-day training period, are ill-equipped to handle the complexities of operating these electric vehicles safely on Mumbai’s congested roads. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the braking mechanisms of Olectra buses, with reports of delayed stopping distances leading to catastrophic collisions.
The alarming frequency of fatal accidents involving Olectra e-buses underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive review of safety protocols, training standards, and operational practices within Mumbai’s public transportation system. As authorities grapple with the aftermath of these tragic incidents, the imperative remains clear: prioritizing passenger safety and preventing further loss of life must be paramount in the ongoing efforts to enhance the city’s transport infrastructure.
