Mumbai's Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply & Transport (BEST) has enforced a significant increase in bus pass rates from March 1, with certain passes experiencing an almost 100% surge. This move is intended to strengthen the financial standing of the organisation, which is presently without a full-time General Manager.

The revised rates offer rounded figures for daily, weekly, and monthly passes. Previously ranging from ₹59 to ₹1499, the new rates simplify pricing structures. The most significant increase in fares for monthly passes, covering 28 days, occurs in the category with the highest number of allowed trips. Here are the increased rates:

• Monthly pass for 150 trips, previously ₹299 (where the single journey fare is ₹6), is now ₹600.

• Monthly pass for 150 trips, formerly ₹749 (where the single journey fare is ₹13), is now ₹1,400.

• Monthly unlimited pass fee increased from ₹750 to ₹900.

Notably, minimum fares for AC and non-AC buses remain unchanged, and subsidies for seniors and school children remain intact. Passes at revised rates are accessible through the BEST Smart Card and Chalo App.