In an effort to modernize Mumbai’s public transportation, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Undertaking introduced twelve Škoda 9Tr trolleybuses on 11 June 1962, replacing the aging tramcars on the Gowalia Tank–Mazgaon route. These electric vehicles operated on routes such as 48, 104, and 135, drawing power from overhead wire.
However, the trolleybus service faced several challenges. The routes traversed highly congested areas, necessitating speeds lower than optimal for trolleybus operations, which affected their profitability. Additionally, the vehicles frequently encountered mechanical issues, leading to service disruptions.There were also incidents where miscreants would pull down the current collectors, disabling the buses and causing further delays.
Due to these operational difficulties and the inability to maintain efficient service, the trolleybuses were withdrawn on 24 March 1971, and conventional buses took over the routes. This shift marked the end of trolleybus operations in Mumbai, reflecting the city’s ongoing evolution in public transportation to meet the demands of its growing population.
