Thane is preparing to introduce an ambitious pod taxi system designed to complement the city’s expanding Metro network while easing traffic congestion on its busiest corridors. Officials confirmed that the project, spanning nearly 52 kilometres with 63 proposed stations, will be taken up under a public-private partnership once legal and safety approvals are in place.
The pilot plan proposes an affordable fare of ₹30 per passenger per stage, positioning the system as both inclusive and cost-effective. Transport experts view this as a potential game-changer in sustainable mobility, reducing carbon emissions while offering last-mile connectivity in a rapidly urbanising city. Yet, the project is not without scepticism. Some local residents have raised concerns over the feasibility of introducing pod taxis when existing transport expansions such as Metro lines and suburban rail upgrades are already underway. They point to Thane’s pressing challenges—flooding, poor road conditions, and strained civic amenities—arguing that fundamental infrastructure should take precedence over futuristic ventures. Urban mobility analysts also caution that integration with existing systems will be crucial to avoid overlapping investments and underutilised assets.
At a recent development review meeting with senior municipal officials, the transport leadership announced parallel measures to ease traffic flow in the short term. Heavy commercial vehicles will soon be restricted from Ghodbunder Road between 6 am and midnight, with cargo traffic redirected through Bhiwandi to decongest the arterial route. This move, officials said, would significantly cut vehicular pollution and improve commuter travel time. In addition, the administration has prioritised the creation of greener public spaces. Plans include a large-scale tree plantation drive along the Nanglabunder creek and expansion of the city’s forest cover. Projects such as the scientific revival of wells, beautification of Kasarvadavli lake, and the development of a mangrove park at Mogharwada were reviewed, signalling a broader agenda of ecological urban regeneration.
Authorities highlighted that development works worth ₹1,800 crore are currently underway across the city, supported by state funding. A directive has been issued to accelerate projects, including the concretisation of service roads along Ghodbunder Road by year-end. Alongside infrastructure, cultural initiatives are also being prioritised, with a third civic theatre planned in the Ghodbunder area to add to the city’s existing performance spaces. For Thane, the pod taxi project represents both a symbolic and practical step towards sustainable urban transit. While residents remain divided over its timing and relevance, the initiative underscores a growing push to build low-carbon, equitable, and modern mobility solutions. The challenge lies in balancing visionary projects with the urgent need for resilient basic infrastructure.
