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The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), along with private bus operator Cityflo, has started special feeder bus services for the new Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) at major stations like CSMT, BKC, and Worli. However, citizens are questioning why BEST, Mumbai's main public bus service, has not introduced its
own feeder buses for all Metro 3 stations.
BEST Planning to Launch New Feeder Routes
A senior BEST official said that a week-long study is underway to understand passenger demand near Metro stations. Based on the results, BEST plans to launch new feeder routes or extend existing ones to improve last-mile connectivity. Members of the citizen group Aamchi Mumbai Aamchi BEST criticized the move to rely on private operators instead of BEST. Activist Hussain Indorewala said that Metro planners seem to see the service as meant for white-collar professionals, not for regular commuters who depend on BEST. He added that if the Metro wants to attract more passengers, it should make travel cheaper and easier for ordinary Mumbaikars. Indorewala also accused authorities of neglecting BEST by reducing services, raising fares, and promoting private buses. Earlier, BEST had tried a feeder route (A-314) between Bandra East and BKC, but it was discontinued due to low demand. Officials now believe ridership may improve after Diwali, as more office-goers return to work.
Officials Commentary
An MMRCL official said the tie-up with Cityflo aims to increase Metro ridership and covers areas the Aqua Line does not reach. Transport expert A.V. Shenoy said feeder buses by BEST should have been available from the first day, as the red buses are essential for common citizens. Another analyst noted that Metro 3 has affected BEST's ridership and urged the agency to focus on feeder routes to boost its revenue and public trust.
