· maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis recently confirmed that pod taxi services will be introduced in mumbai to improve last‑mile connectivity and ease pressure on existing transit systems.

· The plan focuses on linking Kurla Station, Bandra Station, and the Bandra‑Kurla Complex (BKC) — especially important since a bullet train station is expected in the area.

· The pod taxis would also connect key buildings in BKC with these railway stations, ensuring commuters have seamless transfers.

📏 Route, Specs & Technicals: What We Know So Far

Feature

Details

Route length

~ 8.8 km between Bandra and Kurla via BKC

Number of stations

38 intermediate stops along the route

Pod capacity

5–6 passengers per pod unit

Speed

Up to 40 km/h

Frequency

Pods arriving every 15–30 seconds

Fare estimate

~ ₹21 per km, with potential for gradual increase annually

Cost & model

Projected cost ~ ₹1,016 crore, via Public-Private Partnership (PPP). Concession period ~ 30 years

Implementation & contractor

The contract is awarded to Sai Green Mobility Pvt Ltd, working with Ultra PRT technology.

🛠️ Current Status & Next Steps

· The MMRDA is planning to bring in independent engineers (external consultants) to supervise the pod taxi project’s technical compliance and progress.

· The tendering process is underway. Once the technical supervision is in place, construction is expected to begin.

· Officials have pointed out this system is especially viable given the narrow roads, dense infrastructure, and high commuter demand in BKC.

· Two firms have already shown interest in operating the project: Sai Green Mobility and Refex Industries.

✅ Potential Benefits & Challenges

Benefits

1. Reduced congestion on roads and in autos/metros for last‑mile connectivity.

2. Seamless integration with other modes of transport (local trains, metro, buses).

3. Lower transit times between train stations and BKC offices.

4. Scalable transit that fits into dense urban corridors where large infrastructure is hard.

Challenges & Questions

· Capacity constraints: Pods carry only a few passengers at a time — can this scale to match demand?

· Cost vs benefit: Will the investment justify returns in ridership and efficiency?

· Safety, maintenance & operations: Automated systems require rigorous upkeep and advanced monitoring.

· Overlap with existing / upcoming transit: Metro lines, bus systems, and local trains already serve parts of this corridor — will there be redundancy?

· Public acceptance & fare sensitivity: If fares are high, people may resist switching.

📌 Final Word

The pod taxi plan for Kurla‑BKC‑Bandra is a futuristic push toward smarter urban transit in Mumbai. It promises to plug last‑mile gaps, especially with the upcoming bullet train and urban growth around BKC. But success depends heavily on execution, integration with existing systems, and whether it can serve commuters efficiently at scale.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.