Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) is set to witness a transformative leap in urban mobility with the introduction of a futuristic pod taxi system. Designed as a last-mile connectivity solution, the project aims to bridge the gap between suburban railway stations and key locations in the bustling business district.
The BKC pod taxi system, spearheaded by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), is being developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model. Sai Green Mobility Private Limited (SGMPT), in collaboration with Ultra PRT—a technology provider with successful projects such as London’s Heathrow Airport pods—will execute the project at a cost exceeding ₹1,000 crore. The initiative will be rolled out in phases. Phase 1, expected to be completed by 2027, will see 38 stations connecting Bandra and Kurla railway stations to prominent BKC landmarks. The project will be fully completed by 2041, with a total of 54 stations spanning 13.5 km. The network will include three terminals at Bandra, Kurla, and Sion railway stations, along with two interchanges at MTNL and NABARD.
Notable stops on the route include the Regional Passport Office, Jio World Centre, NSE, SEBI, Bharat Diamond Bourse, and several other key locations. Two depots have been proposed near the MMRDA Pay & Park facilities for maintenance and parking needs. All stations will feature elevated concourses with paid and unpaid areas, ensuring seamless ticketing and boarding processes. Conventional solutions such as Metro, monorails, and buses were deemed unsuitable due to the narrow roads around BKC and nearby railway stations. Pod taxis, with their minimal ground space requirement of just 0.8 metres for piling, emerged as the most viable option. They promise to mitigate road congestion while ensuring efficient connectivity.
The techno-economic feasibility study (TEFS) projects a 12% economic internal rate of return over 30 years, alongside numerous benefits. These include reduced traffic congestion, fewer vehicle emissions, and improved air quality. The system also aims to lower health risks associated with pollution, reduce road accidents, and provide affordable transit options for economically weaker sections, enhancing their access to better job opportunities. The pod taxi system will also foster inclusivity by improving mobility for people with disabilities. By providing an independent and efficient transport option, it promises to improve their quality of life significantly. With its completion, the BKC pod taxi network is expected to revolutionise urban transport in Mumbai, setting a benchmark for efficient, inclusive, and sustainable city mobility. The project highlights the potential of innovative solutions to meet the evolving demands of a fast-growing city.
