Mumbai Set to Introduce Pod Taxis for Efficient Commuting

In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion in Mumbai's bustling Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (MMRDA) has greenlit the implementation of a pod taxi service. This groundbreaking move marks the city's first venture into pod taxi transportation within its financial hub.

The Maharashtra government recently unveiled plans for the introduction of pod taxis to streamline transportation to and from the Bandra-Kurla Complex, a prominent business district. The MMRDA has granted approval for the pod taxi service, which will operate along an 8.8 km route connecting Bandra and Kurla railway stations, according to statements released by the Chief Minister's office.

The pods, capable of accommodating six passengers each, will operate at a speed of 40 km per hour and make 38 stops along the designated route. The initiative, to be executed through a public-private partnership, aims to enhance commuting convenience between the two railway stations and BKC.

Initial estimates pegged the cost of the project at INR 50 crore per km in 2017. However, the current projected cost stands at a staggering INR 1,018 crores. Additionally, plans include the establishment of a depot spanning 5,000 sq m within BKC.

Measuring 3.5 m in length, 1.47 m in width, and 1.8 m in height, the pod taxis represent a novel public transport solution. While already operational in select countries, their imminent introduction in Mumbai holds the potential to revolutionize local transportation.

In a related development, the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has endorsed a detailed project report for a INR 810-crore project in Sector 21. This project features 12 stations along a 12-km route, connecting two major projects within the YEIDA area. Pod taxis, officially recognized as Personal Rapid Transit (PRT), signify a unique public transportation system utilising small, driverless vehicles designed for limited passengers or cargo.