Mumbai, September 3, 2024 — The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has taken a major step forward in improving urban mobility by approving the appointment of M/s. Sai Green Mobility Private Limited as the Concessionaire for the Pod Taxi project in the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). This decision was made during the 282nd Executive Committee meeting, chaired by the Chief Secretary.
The project, set to revolutionize last-mile connectivity in BKC, involves the design, engineering, development, construction, testing, commissioning, and operation of an Automated Rapid Transit System (Pod Taxi). Sai Green Mobility has teamed up with M/s. Ultra PRT, known for its successful implementation of similar systems, including the Pod Taxi at Heathrow Airport in London.
The new Pod Taxi system will address the needs of the estimated 400,000 to 600,000 commuters who travel to and from BKC daily. With upcoming infrastructure projects like the bullet train and new commercial developments, the demand for efficient last-mile connectivity is set to rise. The fully autonomous Pod Taxi system, capable of operating at intervals of just 15 to 30 seconds, is designed to navigate the narrow roads linking BKC with Bandra and Kurla suburban stations.
The decision to implement the Pod Taxi system follows a comprehensive Techno-Economic Feasibility Study (TEFS) conducted by MMRDA. The study, peer-reviewed by Tata Consulting Engineers, highlighted the system’s suitability for the region’s topography and anticipated traffic growth.
Fare structures have been carefully considered based on surveys of current auto and bus users. With the average fare for autos and taxis to BKC ranging from Rs. 15.33 to Rs. 100 per kilometer, the Pod Taxi service will offer a competitive rate of Rs. 21 per kilometer, with an annual increase of 4% to cover inflation and operational costs. The rates will be officially announced during the project’s conditions precedent phase.
The project was initially approved in MMRDA’s 156th Authority Meeting on March 6, 2024, with a projected cost of Rs. 1,016.34 crore under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The financial model includes a fixed concession fee and revenue sharing with MMRDA, with a planned construction period of three years and a concession period of 30 years.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Pod Taxi system in BKC represents a major advancement in urban mobility. It will significantly improve last-mile connectivity, reduce congestion, and provide a modern, efficient transportation option for daily commuters.”
Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Chairman of MMRDA, Shri Eknath Shinde, emphasized the project’s significance, saying, “This innovative initiative reflects our dedication to adopting advanced technology solutions to address urban transport challenges. The Pod Taxi system will set a benchmark for future urban transport projects across India, ensuring sustainable and efficient mobility for our citizens.”
The Pod Taxi project marks a pivotal milestone in MMRDA’s efforts to enhance Mumbai’s infrastructure and deliver world-class urban transport solutions.
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