To reform the disjointed public transport system in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has proposed leading the creation of a unified and integrated bus network, The Free Press Journal reported.

The initiative was presented by BEST General Manager SVR Srinivas during a recent meeting of the newly formed transport task force. Addressing concerns about BEST’s capacity to lead such a large-scale effort, Srinivas stated that through route optimisation and improved operational efficiency, BEST is capable of spearheading the integration.

The proposal follows a Government Resolution issued on 10 June by the Urban Development Department, establishing a 12-member task force. Chaired by Srinivas, the committee includes representatives from MMRDA, BMC, traffic police, and municipal bodies of Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Vasai-Virar.

The task force has been assigned to design a regional public transport integration plan, featuring a unified ticketing system and a coordinated bus route strategy.

Currently, public transport in MMR is fragmented, with various municipal agencies operating overlapping routes. This creates confusion for commuters and leads to operational inefficiencies.

Under BEST’s proposed model, high-density arterial routes would be managed centrally by BEST, while local operators would focus on feeder services within their respective zones.

“Streamlining operations will reduce duplication and make transport more reliable and accessible for the public,” a senior official involved with the plan noted.

Although BEST currently operates fewer than 2,700 buses, the project is aligned with the G-HUB initiative under NITI Aayog, which identifies MMR as a pilot region for infrastructure-driven urban growth.