50 Volvos okayed for BMC, only 3 on roads

Even as commuters complain about the quality of the AC King Long buses, the BEST seems to have decided to overlook its own solutions which could lessen the problems faced by commuters.

As per a deal with a private firm, approved by the committee in September 2010, the BEST was to get 50 AC Volvo buses for 10 years, free of cost, in exchange for advertising rights to the firm for 150 bus shelters across the city for 3 years. The BEST had suggested that these buses could serve as an alternative for the commuters of AC King Long buses, who were not satisfied with the services.

However, in spite of receiving the approval of the committee, BEST has introduced only three AC Volvos till date. Two were launched in late December. BEST officials had assured that the delivery of the remaining 48 buses will be expedited. So far, only more 1 AC Volvo bus has been added.

When DNA asked BEST committee chairman, Sanjay Potnis about the delay, “I do not feel the issue is important,” was his reply. However, commuters of the King Long buses do not seem to agree. KR Parmeshwar of King Long Bus Passenger’s Association said that the commuters were charged substantial amounts for the passes and thus, needed to be provided with services accordingly.