Mumbai BEST Strike: Special Buses Deployed for NEET Candidates

Mumbai’s public transport system remains severely disrupted as the indefinite strike by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking enters its third day. With bus operations across the city at a near-total standstill, the BEST administration has taken emergency measures to facilitate travel for candidates appearing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) scheduled for Sunday, June 21, 2026.

Emergency Measures for NEET Students

To minimize the impact of the ongoing agitation on students, the BEST administration has announced the deployment of 60 additional buses specifically to ferry candidates to 63 designated examination centers across the city. These special services are scheduled to operate in two windows: from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Additionally, BEST has requested the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to provide 100 buses to augment general public transport services, though the primary focus remains on ensuring students reach their exam centers.

Strike Context and Impact

The strike, called by the BEST Sanyukt Kamgar Kruti Samiti—an umbrella body representing 12 employee unions—began on the midnight of June 18. Despite an interim order from the Industrial Court and the invocation of the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA) by the government, the agitation has continued.

Data released by BEST on the second day of the strike revealed the severity of the disruption: of a scheduled fleet of over 2,700 buses, only four wet-lease buses were reported to be operational. None of the BEST-owned buses managed to leave the depots as striking employees refused to report for duty.

Demands of the Action Committee

The protesting unions have outlined several long-pending demands, which they claim remain unaddressed despite months of correspondence. Key demands include:

• The merger of the BEST budget with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) budget.

• The implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission recommendations for the 2016–2026 period.

• A one-time settlement of outstanding legal dues for retired employees.

• A move to abolish contractual and "wet-lease" employment models in favor of permanent status for workers.

Official Sources

The BEST administration, in a public statement, confirmed that while transport services are paralyzed, the electricity supply wing of the Undertaking remains unaffected and is functioning normally. BEST Public Relations Officer Sucheta Utale stated that the administration has issued notices under MESMA to both striking employees and wet-lease contractors, warning of legal consequences for disrupting essential services.

"The administration has closely monitored the situation and taken all necessary measures to ensure that no inconvenience is caused to passengers, with priority given to students appearing for the NEET examination," officials stated.

Why It Matters

For thousands of Mumbaikars, BEST buses are the primary mode of transit. The prolonged suspension of services has forced commuters to rely on local trains, metro lines, and private transport like autorickshaws and bike taxis, often at significantly higher costs. For students, the strike presents a time-sensitive logistical challenge, making the deployment of special buses a critical intervention to prevent disruption to their academic prospects.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Strike Duration: Entering the third day as of June 21, 2026.

• NEET Support: 60 additional buses deployed for 63 exam centers in Mumbai.

• Operational Status: Near-total suspension of the 2,700+ bus fleet.

• Legislative Action: Administration has invoked MESMA to compel workers to return to duty.

FAQ

Are local trains and metro services affected by the strike?

No, the strike is limited to the BEST bus and transport department. Local trains and metro services are operational and have been absorbing a large portion of the displaced commuter traffic.

How can students find these special NEET buses?

Students are advised to check local updates or contact their nearest BEST depot, though the buses are specifically scheduled to operate between 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to align with the NEET exam timings.

Why are the employees striking despite a court order?

The unions argue that the administration has failed to engage in meaningful negotiations regarding their demands over the past three months and that the current working conditions and financial issues require immediate resolution.

Source: The Hindu, Hindustan Times, Deccan Chronicle, Times of India