At least five people were injured after an out-of-control BEST bus crashed into two cars and another BEST bus at Lodha Junction in Wadala, Mumbai, around 8:30 pm on Monday, November 9. The vehicles were waiting at a traffic signal when the approaching bus allegedly lost control and hit a Hyundai Creta and a Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, leaving the two cars trapped between the buses.
The injured were taken to Sion Hospital, with two reported to be in critical condition in a later account. Police are investigating whether a mechanical fault, brake failure, driver error or another technical issue caused the crash and are initiating legal action. Initial PTI reporting put the number of injured at six, while a subsequent Times of India report said five people were injured and a pet dog was also hurt.
Cars Trapped Between Buses
The crash occurred at the busy Lodha Junction when traffic had stopped at a red light. A BEST bus was stationary at the signal, with an Ertiga and a Creta behind it. Police said a second BEST bus approaching from behind the Creta lost control and struck the cars, effectively trapping them between the two buses.
The Ertiga driver suffered serious injuries, while other occupants of the two cars were also hurt. All the injured were taken to Sion Hospital for treatment.
Injuries Under Assessment
Reports have differed on the exact number and condition of those injured. PTI, citing police, initially reported six injured, including the Ertiga driver with severe leg injuries, three other occupants of the Ertiga and two occupants of the Creta.
Hindustan Times later reported that the Ertiga driver, identified as Hazrat Shaikh, 33, was in critical condition and had been intubated, while the others were stable and undergoing further medical examinations. A subsequent Times of India report identified five injured people, two of whom were critically injured with head injuries.
Police Probe Cause
DCP Mahendra Pandit said police were investigating why the bus lost control. Possible causes being examined include brake failure, a mechanical fault, driver negligence or another technical issue. The driver and the bus were taken to the police station, while Wadala Truck Terminal police began legal proceedings for the alleged incident.
Police also moved the damaged vehicles to the roadside to restore traffic movement, which had been disrupted following the collision.
BEST Chalo Bus Involved
Hindustan Times reported that the bus involved was a luxury electric AC BEST Chalo bus, while Times of India described it as an app-based BEST Chalo service. The exact technical condition of the vehicle and the reason it lost control will be established through the ongoing investigation and expert examination. Authorities have not yet concluded whether the crash was caused by a mechanical problem or human error.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
A routine wait at a traffic signal should never become a life-threatening situation. While the investigation must determine responsibility based on evidence, the incident highlights the importance of vehicle maintenance, effective safety checks, responsible driving and swift emergency response in a city that relies heavily on public transport. Accountability should follow facts, while those injured deserve proper medical care and support.
Public transport operators must also ensure that safety systems, driver training and vehicle inspections are treated as priorities rather than routine formalities. Safer roads require cooperation between authorities, transport operators, drivers and commuters. Regular audits, transparent reporting, and timely corrective action can help prevent similar crashes and restore public confidence in city transport. What more can Mumbai do to make its roads and public transport safer for everyone?
