BEST Launches New AC Bus Route from Mantralaya to Thane from June 1

Mumbai, 30th May 2025:In a major initiative aimed at enhancing Mumbai’s public transportation system, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has announced the launch of a new air-conditioned (AC) bus service connecting Mantralaya in South Mumbai to Balkum in Thane, effective from Sunday, June 1, 2025.

The newly introduced AC route A490 will be a point-to-point service, specifically catering to daily commuters. It will operate via the Eastern Freeway and Eastern Express Highway, ensuring a faster and more comfortable ride between South Mumbai and the Thane region. According to official sources, departures from Thane are scheduled at 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM, while return trips from Mantralaya will run at 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM.

Major Route Updates Across the City

This move is part of a wider overhaul of Mumbai’s bus services, with changes planned for nearly 30 routes citywide. These updates include:

• New AC Routes: Introduction of additional air-conditioned services across various corridors.

• Upgradation of Non-AC Routes: Existing non-AC routes will be upgraded to AC services.

• Rerouting & Renumbering: Several routes will be rerouted for efficiency, with some being renumbered.

Key updates include:

• Route No. 8 (Mantralaya to Shivaji Nagar) will now be upgraded to an AC route and renumbered as A-8.

• AC-10, currently running between Backbay Bus Depot and Rani Laxmibai Chowk, will be rerouted. Its present path via Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Chowk, Reserve Bank, and P. D'Mello Road to Dockyard Station will be discontinued. The revised route will travel via Hutatma Chowk, Mahatma Phule Mandai, and Bhendi Bazar.

• Route 11 Ltd (Navy Nagar to Bandra Colony Bus Station East) will now run via Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, between Byculla Station (East) and Parel, using the Lalbaug Flyover. Consequently, stops at Jijamata Udyan, Jaihind Cinema, and Lalbaug will be cancelled.

• Route 25, which currently operates between Prabodhanakar Thackeray Udyan and Vihar Sarovar, will be renumbered as Route 29.

A Step Towards Smarter Urban Transit

These extensive changes are aimed at streamlining BEST's operations while enhancing commuter experience, reducing travel times, and promoting environment-friendly AC buses. The new measures are expected to benefit thousands of daily passengers commuting across the city and its suburbs.

Commuters are advised to check updated schedules and routes on the BEST website or mobile app and plan their journeys accordingly.