The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has received bids from two companies for the development of Mumbai’s first pod taxi system, aimed at improving connectivity between Bandra and Kurla.
The companies in contention are Chennai-based Refex Industries and Hyderabad-based Sai Green Mobility, both vying to establish this futuristic transit solution within the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), a significant commercial hub in Mumbai. The proposed pod taxi corridor will cover an 8.8-kilometre stretch and include 38 stations, providing an innovative transit option that promises to alleviate congestion and improve last-mile connectivity in the bustling BKC area. Each pod is designed to be 3.5 metres long, 1.47 metres wide, and 1.8 metres high, with a capacity of approximately six passengers. The pods will operate at a maximum speed of 40 km per hour, offering a rapid and efficient mode of transport for commuters navigating the densely populated business district.
The MMRDA, which initiated the project, invited bids through a request for proposal issued in March. The project is set to be executed on a DFBOT (design, finance, build, operate, and transfer) basis, which will see the chosen contractor responsible for the construction of the elevated corridor and the implementation of the pod taxi system. The entire project is estimated to cost just over ₹1,000 crore, with a construction timeline of approximately 24 months once the contract is awarded. BKC has emerged as Mumbai’s premier business hub, hosting key establishments such as the National Stock Exchange (NSE), a diamond bourse, numerous hotels, malls, and convention centres.
According to MMRDA data, BKC accommodates over 400,000 commuters daily, making the need for efficient and reliable transportation solutions critical. The complex is strategically located between the Bandra and Kurla suburban railway stations, which are essential interchange points for Mumbai’s commuters. The introduction of a pod taxi system is expected to significantly enhance connectivity between Bandra station and BKC, streamlining the transit experience for thousands of daily commuters. This move aligns with broader urban mobility trends aimed at integrating innovative transport technologies to tackle urban congestion and improve commuter convenience.
Pod taxi systems, although widely proposed and discussed across India, have yet to be realised on the ground. The successful implementation of this project in Mumbai could set a precedent, with potential expansions in other parts of the city and beyond. Notably, the Uttar Pradesh government has also approved a similar network to link the upcoming Noida International Airport with key commercial and entertainment hubs, indicating a growing interest in pod taxis as a viable urban transport solution. The MMRDA’s move to introduce pod taxis in BKC represents a significant step towards modernising Mumbai’s transport infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies that align with the city’s evolving needs. If successful, this initiative could transform how commuters navigate one of Mumbai’s busiest business districts, setting a benchmark for future urban mobility projects across the country.
