Mumbai, June 21: On the recommendation of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the state-run BEST has agreed to scale down bus fares in the city. The move is aimed at increasing the number of commuters in public transport, thereby reducing the congestion on roads. The rate rejig will also bring down the cost of AC rides.

The minimum charge levied by BEST has been brought down to Rs 5 from Rs 15 for the minimum - 5 km - distance. The maximum fare - for a distance of 30km - has also been capped at Rs 20, down from Rs 42. Mumbai: BEST to Introduce 80 Electric Buses After Bombay HC Gives Nod to Move

The biggest rate slash will be implemented for AC bus, as the minimum cost has been scaled down from Rs 30 to Rs 6 -- for journey of 5 km. The maximum fare has been brought down from Rs 95 to Rs 25 for a 30-km distance.

The move is said to be a brainchild of new BMC Commissioner Praveen Pardeshi. The civic body is also aiming to increase the bus fleet to over 6,000.

The fresh measures are targeted to double BEST ridership from 25 lakh at present to 50 lakh in the new future. If successful, it would also easen burden on the ever-crowded Mumbai locals.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 21, 2019 12:52 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).