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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday reiterated its commitment to strengthening the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking, with a focus on financial stability and addressing long-pending employee demands.

A joint meeting to review the concerns of BEST employees was held at the BMC headquarters, chaired by Mayor Ritu Tawde. The meeting brought together senior civic officials, BEST authorities, and representatives of workers’ unions.

Focus on Clearing Legal Dues and Employee Welfare

Addressing the gathering, Mayor Tawde said the civic administration is sensitive towards resolving issues related to gratuity and other legal dues of retired workers and employees. She assured that these matters would be handled on priority.

The Mayor also interacted with representatives from the BEST Workers’ Union and the BEST Joint Workers’ Action Committee, hearing their concerns and assuring them of appropriate solutions.

Boosting BEST’s Financial Strength and Bus Fleet

Highlighting the importance of long-term sustainability, Tawde stressed that the BMC is committed to making BEST financially strong and self-reliant. She underscored the need to increase the number of buses owned by BEST, calling it a key priority for improving operational efficiency.

“Planned and systematic efforts will be undertaken, and regular review meetings will be held to ensure progress,” she said, urging the BEST administration to devise effective strategies.

Wide-Ranging Discussions on Key Issues

The meeting covered a broad spectrum of issues, including pending demands of current and retired employees, wage agreements, promotions, compassionate appointments, availability of BEST-owned buses, and financial assistance.

Senior officials present included Deputy Mayor Sanjay Ghadhi, Leader of the House Ganesh Khankar, Standing Committee Chairman Prabhakar Shinde, Shiv Sena Group Leader Amey Ghole, and BEST Committee Chairperson Trishna Vishwasrao. Also in attendance were Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) and Acting BEST General Manager Dr Ashwini Joshi, along with other senior BEST officials.

Push for Financial Discipline and Operational Efficiency

Mayor Tawde emphasised that BEST, being one of Mumbai’s key public transport and electricity providers, must adopt strict financial discipline while enhancing revenue generation and operational efficiency.

She directed the administration to formulate and implement long-term strategies to ensure sustained growth and improved service delivery, adding that continuous monitoring will be undertaken through periodic review meetings.