BEST forms committee to probe Kurla accident, overhaul training of wet lease drivers

“We have now formed a five-member committee to assess the type of training being provided to drivers by wet lease contractors. The committee will also review the duration and adequacy of the training. Based on the findings, we will develop a revised training model to ensure that all drivers receive comprehensive training focused on road safety, public safety, and electric vehicle (EV) operations,” he said.

Following the tragic accident in Kurla, where the Olectra bus driver lost control of the vehicle, questions have been raised about the driver’s experience and qualification.

Diggikar clarified that the driver Sanjay More had a valid licence and had worked for several years as a driver for other wet lease contractors, including Hansa Transport. “Before joining Olectra, More had worked as a driver for Hansa and MP Transport for four years. We are also investigating the circumstances that led to the accident. Was there a mechanical fault in the vehicle, or did the driver simply lose control? These questions are part of our ongoing investigation,” Diggikar explained.

The recent wave of accidents has sparked concern about the safety standards maintained by wet lease operators, especially in terms of driver training. Wet lease contractors, who operate buses under contract with BEST, are responsible for hiring and training the drivers. Critics have pointed out that, despite repeated accidents, there has been little oversight on the quality of training these drivers receive. The newly formed committee will now examine these training practices in detail.

“We need to ensure that all drivers are equipped to handle the challenges of driving in a busy city like Mumbai, particularly with the increasing use of electric buses,” Diggikar said.