BEST Scandal: Drivers Caught Drinking Alcohol, Public Outrage Follows Fatal Accident

BEST Scandal: Recent viral videos showing drivers from Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) purchasing or consuming alcohol while on duty have sparked public outrage. These videos follow a tragic accident involving a wet-leased electric bus in Kurla West, Mumbai, which resulted in seven deaths and 42 injuries. The incident has raised major concerns about the safety and discipline of BEST drivers.

Fatal Bus Accident in Kurla West: 7 Dead, 42 Injured

On December 9, a deadly accident took place when a wet-leased electric bus lost control and crashed into pedestrians and nearby vehicles. The accident caused the deaths of seven people and injured over 40 others. This incident has left the public questioning the safety standards of the BEST fleet, especially after the videos surfaced showing drivers engaging in irresponsible behavior.

Videos Show BEST Drivers Drinking Alcohol on Duty

In the aftermath of the tragic accident, four videos emerged, showing BEST drivers either buying or drinking alcohol while on duty. One video showed a driver drinking while at the wheel at the Mulund depot. These videos have intensified concerns about safety protocols and driver discipline within the organization.

BEST Takes Action: Driver Fired, Breathalyzer Tests Planned

In response to the videos, BEST has taken swift action by firing one of the drivers caught drinking while driving. Officials are now considering mandatory breathalyzer tests for all wet-lease bus operators to prevent similar incidents in the future. BEST management has assured the public that stricter measures will be implemented to ensure safety and discipline.

Accountability of Wet-Leased Drivers vs. BEST Employees

Suhas Samant, president of BEST Kamgar Sena, emphasized that there is a difference in accountability between BEST employees and wet-leased drivers. While BEST employees are bound by strict internal regulations, wet-leased drivers, who are contracted from other companies, have less oversight. This discrepancy has raised questions about the overall safety of the fleet.

BEST’s Commitment to Safety and Discipline

BEST has pledged to improve safety standards and discipline within its fleet to prevent further accidents. The management has also promised to review policies for both permanent and wet-leased drivers to ensure that the tragic accident in Kurla West is not repeated.