BEST premium bus service on Kharghar –BKC route | Image courtesy – Chalo Bus Website

These air-conditioned, zero-emission electric vehicles (e-buses), also called the ‘BEST Chalo Bus’ will ensure a smooth, comfortable and hassle-free journey. The fleet will be distinguished by its deep blue colour.

Apart from Thane-BKC and Kharghar-BKC routes, the premium buses will also be introduced on two more stretches – from Chembur to Cuffe Parade and Thane to Powai. The BEST authorities selected these routes after a detailed survey of popular routes by private buses.

Commuters need to reserve their tickets through the Chalo app. Since the service will be fully digitised, these premium buses will not have any bus conductors and commuters can use the tap-in tap-out facility. The buses will be non-stop services and will halt only if a passenger is to be picked up.

In addition, the BEST intends to place 200 more e-buses on popular city routes in the upcoming months.

In December, the BEST also announced that they will roll out double-decker e-buses in January. At least 10 double-decker e-buses will be rolled out on January 14, 2023 and the fleet will be gradually increased to 50 in the first phase, BEST GM said earlier.

The transport authority also plans to start taxi services with 500 electric vehicles by June next year and has already floated tenders for it.