Maharashtra Plans New Pod Taxi Route from Mira-Bhayandar to Thane-Ghodbunder

Mumbai, India (Urban Transport News): In a bid to ease urban congestion and enhance connectivity, Maharashtra is set to introduce a pod taxi system linking Mira-Bhayandar to Thane-Ghodbunder. The state government aims to integrate this high-tech transportation system with metro and railway stations to improve commuter experience.

Even as the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) pod taxi project faces slow progress, the state transport minister, Pratap Sarnaik, has confirmed plans for the Mira-Bhayandar to Thane-Ghodbunder corridor. Sarnaik, accompanied by transport officials and an MLA from Gujarat, recently visited the Futran Experience Centre of Nutran EV Mobility in Vadodara to assess the technology.

“The pod car system will help solve congestion problems using state-of-the-art technology,” Sarnaik stated. “We have evaluated multiple corridors in Maharashtra, and Mira-Bhayandar Road has emerged as a priority.”

Futran System: A Make in India Initiative

The Futran system, a key player in India's Make in India initiative, already manufactures 70% of its components domestically, with plans to reach 85% local production by 2028. This focus on indigenous production ensures cost-effectiveness and low maintenance, making it a sustainable urban mobility solution.

The system operates 24/7 and seamlessly integrates with metro stations. Equipped with onboard collision avoidance and a compact station design, each pod can carry up to 20 passengers at speeds of 60-70 kmph. With a small turning radius and an elevated track positioned six meters above road level, the pod taxi system promises minimal disruption to existing road infrastructure. The high-capacity transit network can transport over 15,000 passengers per direction per hour.

Seamless Metro Integration and Future Plans

Officials involved in the project highlight that the system will complement existing metro networks, creating seamless last-mile connectivity. The Maharashtra Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has also advanced plans for a pod taxi project in BKC. Hyderabad-based Sai Green Mobility Private Limited has been appointed as the concessionaire for the BKC pod taxi on a PPP basis. MMRDA issued the Letter of Intent on September 10, 2024, and signed the Concessionaire Agreement on October 9, 2024. The company has a one-year timeline to obtain necessary approvals.

With Maharashtra moving towards advanced urban mobility solutions, the introduction of pod taxis in high-traffic corridors is expected to revolutionize urban transportation, providing a faster, sustainable, and more efficient commuting experience for millions.