BEST Kurla, Mumbai Bus Tragedy
MUMBAI: A tragic accident involving a Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) bus in Kurla West on Monday night left seven people dead and 42 others injured. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on SG Barve Marg when the electric AC bus veered out of control, causing a series of collisions over a stretch of 100 meters.
The police have identified the driver as Sanjay More (50), who has been arrested and charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder under sections 105 and 110 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Driver Discloses Discomfort with Automatic Transmission
During questioning, Sanjay More revealed his discomfort with the automatic transmission system of the electric bus. Assigned to the vehicle on December 1, More previously operated manual transmission buses for a private contractor. According to a report by The Times of India, he admitted that the lack of a clutch in the automatic vehicle caused confusion while driving.
Despite these admissions, eyewitnesses alleged that the driver appeared inebriated, which might have contributed to his inability to control the bus.
Bus Ploughs Through Vehicles and Pedestrians
The incident began when the bus struck several vehicles, including two-wheelers and autorickshaws, some of which were traveling on the wrong side of the road. According to police reports, one autorickshaw was completely crushed in the collision.
The vehicle continued its path of destruction, hitting multiple pedestrians and vehicles, before coming to a halt at the gate of Dr. Ambedkar Nagar housing complex near the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s L-ward office.
Eyewitness Allegations and Ongoing Investigation
Witnesses to the incident claimed that the driver appeared intoxicated. However, Sanjay More was escorted to JJ Hospital for a medical examination to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
The police are also investigating mechanical failures, including potential brake malfunctions. An unnamed official stated that experts would examine the vehicle to confirm the cause of the accident.
Victims and Ongoing Medical Treatment
The injured, including four police officers on bandobast duty, were rushed to hospitals such as Bhabha Hospital, Sion Hospital, and Seven Hills Hospital. While the condition of some victims remains critical, the police officers are reported to be stable.
BEST Issues Statement on the Incident
In its initial statement, BEST acknowledged that the driver may have lost control of the bus. The electric vehicle, manufactured by Hyderabad-based Olectra Greentech, was operated under a wet lease agreement.
Following the crash, BEST and authorities emphasized the need for thorough investigations to prevent future incidents involving electric buses.
Court Hearing Scheduled for Driver
Sanjay More is set to be produced in court as investigations continue. Authorities are focusing on determining whether driver error, mechanical failure, or a combination of both led to the devastating crash.
This incident highlights the critical need for training drivers on modern vehicles and ensuring the safety of passengers and pedestrians on Mumbai’s busy streets.
