The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has made a significant move to enhance urban mobility in Mumbai by appointing Sai Green Mobility Private Limited as the Concessionaire for the Automated Rapid Transit System, commonly known as the Pod Taxi.
The executive committee of MMRDA approved this decision on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment for the Rs 1,016 crore project in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC).
Sai Green Mobility, partnering with Ultra PRT, a leading technology provider with experience in operating Pod Taxi systems like the one at Heathrow Airport, London, will handle the design, engineering, development, construction, testing, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of the Pod Taxi system. This system aims to transform last-mile connectivity for the thousands of commuters travelling to and from BKC daily.
The Pod Taxi system is designed to operate autonomously with high frequency, making it ideal for the congested roads linking BKC to Bandra and Kurla suburban stations.
The growing footfall in BKC, driven by infrastructure projects like the bullet train and new commercial developments, has underscored the need for an efficient transportation solution.
The decision to implement the Pod Taxi system followed a comprehensive Techno-Economic Feasibility Study (TEFS) conducted by MMRDA, which assessed various global technologies.
The study, reviewed by Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE), recommended the Pod Taxi system due to its suitability for BKC’s topography and anticipated traffic growth.
Current fare structures for existing transportation options highlight the need for an affordable and efficient alternative. Presently, commuters pay varying rates for auto and taxi services, with metered autos costing around Rs 15.33 per km and taxis charging Rs 18.67 per km.
Surveys indicated a willingness among 70% of auto users and 36% of bus users to pay Rs 21 per km for the Pod Taxi service. Therefore, the TEFS study recommended a fare of Rs 21 per km, with a 4% annual increase to cover inflation and operational costs.
MMRDA approved the project during its 156th Meeting on March 6, 2024, on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis. The project is expected to take three years to complete, with a 30-year concession period. The financial model includes a fixed concession fee and revenue sharing with MMRDA.
Metropolitan Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee highlighted that the Pod Taxi project represents a major advancement in urban mobility for one of Mumbai’s busiest districts. The system aims to alleviate congestion and offer a modern, efficient transportation option for daily commuters.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde praised the initiative as a reflection of Mumbai’s commitment to adopting advanced technology solutions for urban challenges. He expressed hope that the Pod Taxi system would serve as a model for future urban transport projects across India, promoting sustainable and efficient mobility.
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