AdminA sprawling convoy of more than 50 auto–rickshaws lined up in front of the Sion police station just before 7 pm, desperate to reach the Chaityabhoomi in Dadar on the eve of Mahaparinirvan Diwas. In an unprecedented move, Mumbai Police deployed a smart bus system to ferry the crowds to the memorial, averting a potential traffic nightmare and setting a new benchmark for crowd‑management practices during public‑celebration events.
Background & Context
Mahaparinirvan Diwas, commemorating the death anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, draws thousands of devotees every year. The Chaityabhoomi, located at Peddar Road, has always been a focal point for solemn processions. In recent years, the surge in turnout has strained Mumbai’s already delicate traffic network, especially during the 6–7 pm rush hour when the city’s roads are jam-packed.
Last month, a study by the Mumbai Police Department (MPD) found that events like Mahaparinirvan Diwas could create a 60‑percent increase in traffic volume in the central districts. “The risk of accidents and gridlock rises sharply when hundreds of motorized vehicles converge on a single route,” said Inspector‑General Ravindra Joshi, who oversaw the day’s operations.
Traditionally, police have regulated vehicle entry by sealing off roads or issuing verbal direction. However, the sheer number of autos and the urgency of the pilgrimage required a more systematic solution—hence the introduction of a dedicated smart bus system.
Key Developments
At a pre‑briefing held on the 5th, MPD introduced a coordinated fleet of 12 BEST (Bombay Electric Supply Transport) buses, each equipped with real‑time GPS and SMS‑alert modules. The buses were assigned to the following routes:
- Route A: Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar – Sion – Dadar (Chaityabhoomi)
- Route B: Bandra East – Versova – Dadar
- Route C: Andheri West – Jogeshwari – Dadar
Motorized carriers were barred beyond Sion. Police officers in full gear escorted the 50+ autos to the bus stops at Mahim and Bandra, issuing electronic tickets that could be scanned at the entry points. At 6:45 pm, the buses departed, stopping every 15–20 minutes to allow devotees to board without crowding.
“This was the first time we deployed a fully integrated smart bus system for crowd management in Mumbai,” commented Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Maya Nair. “The GPS tracking allowed us to reroute buses in real time if a road was blocked, ensuring minimal delays.”
In addition to the buses, the police installed temporary traffic barriers and launched a 24‑hour emergency helpline. The integrated system transmitted live updates to a central control room, where a traffic‑management team could monitor queues at every stop and adjust bus frequency accordingly.
Impact Analysis
The deployment reduced overall waiting time by 35 percent compared to the average 1‑hour wait at Chaityabhoomi during previous years. According to the MPD’s post‑event survey, 78 percent of commuters rated the bus service “excellent” or “good.” Moreover, the system prevented at least five potential traffic incidents that were reported by local news agencies.
For students—especially international scholars studying in Mumbai—this development is a boon. Many international students volunteer at the Chaityabhoomi or attend related cultural programs, and they often rely on public transport. “The new bus system ensures that I can arrive on time for my research meetings without the worry of traffic congestion,” said Maria Silva, a 2025‑resident at St. Mary’s College.
Additionally, the smart bus system reduces carbon emissions. By consolidating the load that would otherwise be carried by dozens of autos, the city saw a 12 percent drop in vehicular emissions during the event, contributing to Mumbai’s sustainability targets.
Expert Insights & Tips
Dr. Prakash Verma, a professor of Urban Planning at the University of Mumbai, advises commuters and event organisers to:
- Plan Ahead: Secure a bus ticket at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure to guarantee a seat.
- Use the MPD App: The Police app now features real‑time bus tracking, allowing you to adjust your arrival time to avoid overcrowding.
- Stay Water‑Charged: Buses are equipped with charging ports, but you should bring a power bank for smartphones, as connectivity can be spotty on the route.
- Practice Flexibility: If a road is unexpectedly blocked, the smart bus system will reroute you, but you should allow a 5‑minute buffer in case of detours.
- Share Feedback: Use the “Feedback” button in the MPD app to report any issues, helping the police fine‑tune future deployments.
For students travelling from abroad, it is also wise to check visa and transport arrangements at least two weeks in advance. “Being prepared will save you precious time, especially when you are juggling research commitments and cultural duties,” added Dr. Verma.
Looking Ahead
MPD’s success with the smart bus system has prompted discussions about expanding the model to other major events—like the Ganesh Chaturthi processions and cricket fan festivals. Deputy Commissioner Nair noted that the infrastructure used here can be replicated with minimal investment, suggesting a phased rollout across the city over the next 12 months.
Policy makers have also expressed interest in integrating this approach with Mumbai’s smart city portal. “A city‑wide digital platform that synchronises crowd flow, weather data, and emergency services will be a game changer,” said City Councillor Arjun Khanna.
Students and alumni network are encouraged to participate in feedback forums hosted by MPD each year. Their insights, especially those who commute in Mumbai’s diverse transportation ecosystem, will shape the next iterative improvements.
As the city gears up to host more global events, the smart bus system stands as a testament to Mumbai’s adaptability and innovative spirit in crowd management.
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