CCTV footage has surfaced showing the BEST bus driver, Sanjay More, fleeing through a broken window moments after a deadly accident in Kurla (West) on Monday night. The crash claimed seven lives, injured 42, and left significant devastation, including 22 damaged vehicles.
The footage, widely circulated on social media, shows a chaotic scene inside the bus. Passengers are seen clinging to poles and grab handles, while others rise in confusion as the electric vehicle (EV) careens down SG Barve Marg, hitting pedestrians and vehicles.
Driver’s Actions Under Scrutiny
In one clip, Sanjay More can be seen emerging from the bus cabin with two black backpacks before leaping out of a shattered window on the left side of the vehicle. Meanwhile, the bus conductor exited through the rear door.
The driver has since been arrested and charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. He remains in police custody until December 21. Investigators have revealed that More lacked significant experience in driving electric buses, having undergone only a 10-day training program for EV operation.
The out-of-control bus, operated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking, created havoc on the busy Kurla street. Besides the tragic loss of lives, the accident left 42 people injured, including four policemen on duty.
The incident has prompted intense scrutiny of safety protocols and training for drivers operating electric buses under BEST’s wet lease model.
Authorities Respond with Safety Measures
In response to the tragedy, BEST and Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) officials held emergency meetings with private operators responsible for supplying buses under the wet lease model. Key measures discussed include:
- Mandatory Breath Analyzer Tests: Drivers will now undergo breath tests to ensure fitness to drive.
- Enhanced Driver Training: Private operators have been directed to provide detailed information on driver training modules, infrastructure, and selection criteria.
- Internal Investigation: Senior BEST officials, along with the Maharashtra transport commissioner, are conducting a thorough inquiry into the crash. A report will be submitted to the state government.
Wet Lease Model
Under the wet lease system, private contractors supply buses and drivers to government transport bodies like BEST. These contractors are also responsible for vehicle maintenance. Transport bodies pay a fixed fee for the buses but rely on contractors for operational oversight.
The Kurla accident has highlighted gaps in driver training and oversight under this model. Officials are now calling for stricter guidelines and regular audits to ensure safety compliance.
Preventing Future Tragedies
The Kurla crash has brought to light serious lapses in driver training and safety measures for electric buses. As authorities work to address these issues, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of stringent safety standards in public transportation.
With the implementation of new protocols and enhanced oversight, officials hope to prevent similar incidents in the future and restore public confidence in Mumbai’s transport system.
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