Bus drivers, conductors want better facilities at depots, shows BEST union study

If the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking bus drivers and conductors want anything to improve, it's the facilities for them at bus depots.

A study conducted by the BEST Workers Union has revealed that basic facilities, such as sanitation, canteen and restrooms, at city's 26 bus depots are not up to the mark.

In all, around 1,800 drivers and conductors were asked over the last one month if they are satisfied and happy with support facilities at BEST bus depots.

As per the study, 97% want better public conveniences, and 91% are unhappy with the canteen or the food served there and want it to be upgraded. Also, 86% want the retiring rooms at every depot, which are in a pathetic condition, to be improved so that they can relax in a better environment.

However, despite such an overwhelming response to the study — critical of the present state of affairs and vehement in its demand for better working conditions — an official maintained that regular maintenance activity is carried out at the bus depots whenever any problem is brought to their notice.

The study was conducted after the BEST administration wanted computerised schedule, prepared by Canadian firm Trapeze, for the staff to come into force. The staff had opposed the move by going on a strike through mass leave. Currently, the computerised working chart is in effect at two depots and is scheduled to come into force at all the depots from June 1.