Mumbai: Chalo buses see 50 per cent growth, expands fleet with new electric AC buses

Chalo cards are used by BEST commuters. Pic/Nimesh Dave

The BEST-affiliated Chalo buses have witnessed a 50 per cent growth in ridership in the last three months, trending at about 10,000 daily average ridership on a typical weekday. The fleet is now expanding by 44 per cent, adding new electric luxury AC buses, bringing the total network size to 144.

This expansion will ensure more trips on popular routes like Belapur-Colaba (via MTHL-Atal Setu), Thane-Andheri, Thane-BKC, and Navi Mumbai-BKC. Commuters on these routes can expect a bump in daily trips, with increases ranging from 15 per cent to 40 per cent.

The Belapur-Colaba route (via Atal Setu or MTHL), connecting Navi Mumbai to Colaba via the new MTHL-Atal Setu and Eastern Freeway, has seen explosive popularity, adding 50 per cent more trips. With this fleet expansion, Chalo is also exploring new all-day and weekend routes to cater to a wider audience across Mumbai.

Chalo's monthly travel plans are popular among customers, offering convenience and flexibility, with options ranging from 10 trips to 45 trips. The 45-trip plan is the most popular choice, followed by the 25-trip plan. Chalo has also introduced route-specific passes based on public demand, which have been well-received.

"With the introduction of new travel plans and fleet expansion, Chalo will be adding new all-day and weekend routes as well, providing a seamless and affordable public transport experience across Mumbai," said Mohit Dubey, CEO of Chalo.

The Chalo bus service was launched in Mumbai in 2022. With this fleet expansion, Chalo will operate 100 electric luxury AC buses and 44 BS6 low-emission luxury AC buses. Passengers are assured a dedicated reclining seat with personal AC vents and USB charging ports. Tickets can be booked via the Chalo App, and passengers can live track their buses to minimise waiting time at bus stops. With the live-tracking feature on the app, commuters can head to their bus stop just a few minutes before their bus arrives, rather than waiting for 15-20 minutes as they did earlier.

10,000
Daily average ridership