Citizens in Mumbai have urged authorities to ensure that Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) buses operate as feeder services outside all Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) stations, arguing that the absence of the city’s public buses weakens last-mile connectivity and discourages wider ridership of the newly launched corridor.
While the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL) has partnered with private operator Cityflo to run feeder buses at select stations such as CSMT, Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), and Worli, citizen groups say this model undermines the public nature of the city’s transport network. They have demanded a comprehensive plan where BEST—widely regarded as Mumbai’s mobility backbone—takes the lead in providing equitable and affordable last-mile services. A senior BEST official confirmed that the undertaking is conducting a week-long survey outside Aqua Line stations to assess passenger flows and identify potential feeder routes. “We are studying whether existing routes can be extended or new ones introduced to connect directly to Metro stations,” the official said, adding that BEST plans to deploy dedicated feeders not only along Metro Line 3 but also outside Lines 1, 2A, and 7 in the coming months.
Transport analysts argue that prioritising public buses over private operators is crucial for inclusive mobility. “Public transit must serve everyone—office-goers, students, and workers alike,” said one urban mobility expert. “Relying on premium private buses risks turning Metro travel into a class-based service instead of a city-wide network for all.” Earlier, BEST had experimented with a feeder route between Bandra East and BKC, but the initiative was discontinued due to low ridership. Officials now believe that post-festival traffic and increased office attendance may make such services more viable.
MMRCL officials maintain that their arrangement with Cityflo is aimed at expanding access to areas not yet covered by the Metro. “Neither side is paying the other; it’s a mutually beneficial initiative designed to boost ridership and convenience,” an MMRCL representative clarified. Urban transport advocates, however, believe the city missed an opportunity to plan seamless inter-agency coordination from the start. “Feeder buses from Day One would have set a strong precedent,” said a member of a citizens’ mobility forum. “The red BEST buses are not only iconic but also vital for integrating multiple transport systems across Mumbai.”
Experts note that integrating BEST and Metro networks could increase public transport usage, reduce car dependency, and support Mumbai’s broader transition to sustainable urban mobility. Strengthening affordable and inclusive last-mile options, they say, will be key to ensuring the Metro fulfils its role as a people’s transport system—not just a premium commute choice.
Mumbai Commuters Demand BEST Feeder Buses Across All Metro 3 Station Routes