In a significant step towards improving urban mobility, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for India’s first pod taxi project in Mumbai. The Automated Rapid Transit System will connect Kurla with the Bandra Kurla Complex, aiming to strengthen last-mile connectivity for daily commuters travelling to the city’s key business hub, reported news agency PTI.
Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar were present at the event, along with senior officials.
MMRDA to implement project across key corridors
The project is being executed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). The full corridor will span 8.85 kilometres and will be developed in phases to ensure smooth implementation, reported news agency PTI.
The first phase will cover a 3.36-kilometre stretch between Bandra East and Kurla. The route will connect important locations such as LBS Marg, Kalanagar, and Bandra Kurla Complex, while also linking suburban railway stations at Bandra and Kurla, improving access for commuters across different parts of the city, reported PTI.
Driverless pods to offer faster and efficient travel
The system will use driverless, technology-enabled pods that run on battery power along a dedicated elevated track. Each pod will accommodate up to six passengers and operate at a maximum speed of 40 kilometres per hour.
A total of 22 air-conditioned stations will be constructed along the route, spaced at regular intervals of around 200 metres. The system is designed to improve efficiency, with pods stopping only at selected stations based on passenger choice, reducing unnecessary delays. With a frequency of one pod every 15 seconds, the service aims to provide quick and convenient travel, reported PTI.
Integration with metro network to enhance connectivity
The pod taxi system will be integrated with Mumbai’s metro network, creating a seamless multi-modal transport system. It will connect with Metro Line 3 at Bandra Kurla Complex and Metro Line 2B at key stations, enabling smoother transfers for commuters.
A dedicated depot will also be developed at a Railway Land Development Authority plot in Bandra East to support operations and maintenance of the system.
Project to reduce congestion and promote sustainable travel
Officials stated that the project will be implemented under a public-private partnership model, ensuring that there is no financial burden on the state government. The system is also expected to generate revenue while improving urban transport infrastructure.
The pod taxi project is expected to play a key role in reducing traffic congestion, cutting travel time, and promoting environmentally friendly transport solutions. Authorities estimate that by 2031, the system could serve more than 1.09 lakh passengers daily, making it a crucial addition to Mumbai’s evolving transport network.
(With inputs from PTI)
