Staff Writer
Mumbai: Chalo, which operates the luxury ac BEST Chalo Bus service under license from BEST, has witnessed a 50% growth in ridership in the last 3 months, trending to 10,000 daily average ridership on a typical weekday. To cater to this increasing demand, Chalo is significantly expanding its fleet by 44%, adding new electric luxury AC buses taking the total network size to 144. This investment will mean 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% to 40%.
The Belapur-Colaba (via MTHL) route, connecting Navi Mumbai to Colaba via the new MTHL-Atal Setu and Eastern Freeway, has seen explosive popularity. To address this, Chalo has added 50% more trips to this route. With this fleet expansion, Chalo is also exploring new all-day and weekend routes which would help cater a wider audience across Mumbai.
Chalo’s monthly travel plans are also popular amongst customers, as these plans offer 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.
“We are thrilled to witness the growing demand for Chalo Bus in Mumbai,” says Mohit Dubey, CEO of Chalo.”With the introduction of new travel plans and fleet expansion, Chalo will be adding new all-day and weekend routes as well which will provide seamless and affordable public transport experience across Mumbai”.