Kurla Bus Accident: In a tragic incident on Monday, an electric bus operated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking lost control in Kurla, Mumbai, resulting in the deaths of seven people and injuries to 42 others. The crash, which also damaged over 20 vehicles, was captured on CCTV and has left the city reeling.
The driver, Sanjay More, has been arrested on charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and is in police custody until December 21. During police interrogation, More revealed that he had no prior experience driving electric buses and had undergone only a single day of training for handling electric vehicles (EVs).
Despite his extensive experience with non-electric buses, More stated he had driven the electric bus just three times during the training.
According to BEST’s standard operating procedures, drivers are required to complete a six-week training programme before operating e-buses manually.
Police sources revealed that at the time of the crash, the bus was traveling at over 60 kmph, and More reportedly lost control, stating he was “unable to understand” the vehicle’s operations.
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Eyewitness Accounts and Investigation
An eyewitness reported that the bus swerved uncontrollably for a stretch of 200 meters before colliding with pedestrians and vehicles. Authorities are investigating whether technical faults in the bus, manufactured by Olectra and leased to BEST through EVEY Trans, contributed to the crash.
The bus conductor and 24 other individuals have had their statements recorded, while police plan to question More’s family and colleagues to explore any possible disputes or personal issues.
Questions Over Wet-Lease Operations
The electric bus involved in the crash was part of a wet-lease arrangement, where private operators supply both the vehicles and the drivers. BEST officials stated that the bus had been in service for just three months.
This incident raises concerns about the adequacy of training provided by private operators for drivers of leased vehicles, particularly for high-capacity EVs that require specialized handling.
Victims and Community Impact
The crash has devastated families and left the Kurla community in shock. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident and hold those responsible accountable.
This tragedy highlights the need for stricter adherence to training protocols, particularly for drivers handling advanced vehicles like electric buses, to ensure public safety on the roads.
