Drunken driving by BEST bus drivers endangers Mumbai commuters

In Mumbai, India, two videos have ignited public outrage after depicting instances of drunken driving by a bus driver employed by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST). The first video surfaced on December 11, 2024, with its contents being widely shared on social media, while the second clip, reportedly taken on November 18, 2024, accompanied police duty. The revelation has raised significant concerns about the passenger safety and the accountability of contract-based drivers within the BEST. The videos reveal that the driver admits to being under the influence, which further complicates the matter for BEST officials who have so far remained silent about the alarming situation exposed in the footage. The circumstances surrounding these incidents spotlight the necessity for greater oversight and stricter operational protocols within BEST's operations, particularly concerning contract drivers who may not feel adequately monitored. Public outcry has followed, with social media users demanding action from officials and authorities. Many commuters in Mumbai depend on BEST's services daily, making the safety concerns profound and immediate. People expect better governance, and such revelations could prompt emergency measures to restore public trust in the transportation system. A call for reform has emerged with demands for accountability from contractors and for the BEST organization as a whole. Concerns regarding public safety have led to the belief that enforcement of alcohol testing and proper oversight is crucial to prevent future occurrences and protect passengers. Thus, as the community reacts, local authorities face increasing pressure to take swift action to ensure standards are met, along with better training and monitoring of drivers to ensure that situations of drunken driving do not continue.