A tragic accident involving a BEST electric bus in Kurla has claimed six lives and left 49 injured. The incident occurred on Monday night when the bus, operating on route A-332, lost control and rammed into multiple vehicles and pedestrians over a 500-meter stretch. The crash unfolded near the Lal Bahadur Shastri Road, a crowded market area, causing widespread panic and devastation.
Initial reports suggest that brake failure may have been a contributing factor, though officials are also investigating whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol. Witnesses reported the bus speeding uncontrollably before colliding with vehicles, including a police jeep, and eventually stopping after crashing into a residential building in the Buddha Colony area.
The bus involved, a three-month-old electric vehicle, was operated under a wet lease agreement with a private company. Questions are now being raised about maintenance standards and the training of drivers employed by private contractors.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents and officials, who are demanding accountability from the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking. An investigation is underway, and the driver has been charged with multiple offenses, including culpable homicide.
Authorities are urging witnesses to come forward with any additional information. Meanwhile, families of the victims and the injured are calling for justice and stringent measures to prevent similar incidents in the future