BEST’s Comprehensive Arrangements Strengthen Public Services for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Mahaparinirvana Day

Mumbai is preparing to welcome thousands of followers gathering at Chaityabhoomi from 4 to 6 December to honour Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar on his 69th Mahaparinirvana Day. In anticipation of the large crowds, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking has announced an extensive plan covering power supply, transport support, medical services and visitor assistance. The arrangements reflect a coordinated civic effort to ensure safety, convenience and dignity for every visitor participating in the annual commemoration.

The observance of Mahaparinirvana Day draws people from across Maharashtra and beyond, making it one of Mumbai’s most significant annual public gatherings. BEST’s involvement highlights the continued importance of integrated municipal services in managing events of this scale, where mobility, public health and infrastructure reliability must work in harmony.

Enhanced Power Supply and Public Infrastructure for High Footfall Zones

BEST has significantly strengthened its temporary power supply infrastructure around Dadar and Chaityabhoomi to ensure uninterrupted electricity during the three-day event. Special arrangements have been made for pavilions and tents erected by various organisations, with applications for temporary supply accepted until 4 December at the Customer Service G/North Divisional Office. A dedicated one-window service center has also been created near Nana-Nani Park to streamline requests and reduce administrative delays.

To maintain a reliable supply, BEST has deployed reserve teams at locations such as Shivaji Park Maidan and Vanita Samaj. Two 62.5 kV generators have been positioned at key points, supplemented by additional high-capacity generators and round-the-clock duty teams. This multi-layered contingency plan ensures that the event’s power infrastructure remains resilient, even under peak demand.

Lighting upgrades form an important part of BEST’s preparations. A total of 781 LED streetlights and three 2000W metal halide lights will illuminate prominent locations including Chaityabhoomi, Dadar Chowpatty, Rajgruh, Ambedkar College and Wadala. Three additional 6 kW searchlights at Bajiprabhu Udyan, Dnyaneshwar Udyan and the Mayor’s Bungalow will enhance visibility and safety during night hours, helping visitors navigate crowded areas comfortably.

Expanded Bus Services to Support Seamless Public Transport

Public mobility is one of the most critical components of Mahaparinirvana Day arrangements. BEST will operate 17 special buses from the night of 4 December until the morning of 6 December to support the continuous movement of followers. These services will provide essential connectivity at hours when regular transport options are limited.

On 6 December, BEST will deploy 42 additional buses on major routes including 28, AC 33, A-164, A-247, C-305, A-351, A-357, A-385 and C-440. This expanded fleet aims to manage the expected surge in footfall and ensure smooth movement across central and suburban corridors.

A notable initiative this year is the introduction of 10 AC electric buses for the Dr Babasaheb Smritsthal Darshan circuit on 5 and 6 December. These buses will operate from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Udyan and take passengers through significant Ambedkar memorial sites in South Mumbai. With a fare of Rs 75, the service provides both comfort and an organised way to experience the commemorative journey.

Visitor Facilitation and Ticketing Support

To assist passengers, BEST will station traffic officers and bus inspectors at Shivaji Park and nearby areas from 6 am to 10 pm on 6 December. Their role will include crowd management, guidance and immediate assistance for commuters unfamiliar with the area or the special services.

Visitors will also be able to purchase daily bus passes priced at Rs 75 on 5 and 6 December at Chaityabhoomi and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Udyan. These passes enable convenient travel across Mumbai and are expected to reduce queuing times and pressure on ticket counters.

Strengthened Medical Support and Public Health Awareness
 

BEST has enhanced its healthcare initiatives for this year’s event, recognising the need for preventive medical support during large gatherings. Free medical and eye check-up camps will operate at multiple points, and up to 700 pairs of spectacles will be distributed where needed. Twenty medical teams, comprising doctors, technicians and pharmacists, will work in five shifts to ensure continuous coverage.

The civic undertaking will also focus on health awareness, with teams educating visitors about malaria, dengue, tuberculosis, heart disease and the risks associated with tobacco consumption. Counselling sessions for tobacco de-addiction will be available, extending support beyond immediate medical needs.

Additional initiatives include diabetes screening, distribution of informational brochures and an awareness street play on HIV/AIDS conducted by MDACS. These programs strengthen public engagement around health issues while ensuring that visitors receive timely support if required.

Cultural Engagement and Resources for Followers

To honour Dr Ambedkar’s life and intellectual legacy, BEST will distribute free books on his biography throughout the three-day event. Refreshments will also be provided to visiting followers, reflecting the undertaking’s broader commitment to hospitality and service during significant cultural anniversaries.

The emphasis on cultural engagement alongside public service operations shows how civic agencies can contribute meaningfully to commemorative events, not only through infrastructure and logistics, but by supporting shared heritage and public learning.

A Coordinated Civic Effort Supporting a Day of National Significance

BEST’s comprehensive arrangements demonstrate an integrated approach to managing large public gatherings in Mumbai. By strengthening power systems, enhancing mobility, expanding medical support and offering cultural resources, the undertaking is addressing the diverse needs of thousands who visit Chaityabhoomi each year.

The preparations signal a thoughtful blend of operational efficiency and respect for the significance of Mahaparinirvana Day, ensuring that followers can participate with comfort, safety and dignity.