BEST Undertaking plans ₹200 crore replacement of aging Mumbai electricity cables

The Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport Undertaking identified that nearly 300 km of its underground electricity cable network, some dating back 70–80 years, requires replacement. This concern was highlighted by a fire in Bhuleshwar. BEST has initiated a tender for the replacement work, estimated to cost ₹200 crore, with completion expected by 2029.

The deteriorating infrastructure poses risks, as officials noted that temporary repairs and power diversions increase the load on existing lines, potentially causing overheating and fire. The undertaking has identified nearly 1,200 critical locations across south and central Mumbai where cable faults require urgent repair.