The Maharashtra state government is advancing plans to introduce a pod taxi system connecting Mira-Bhayandar and Thane-Ghodbunder, aiming to alleviate urban congestion and enhance connectivity to railway and metro stations. This initiative follows the earlier proposal for a similar system in the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), which has experienced delays.
State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed the new route after visiting the Futran Experience Centre at Nutran EV Mobility in Vadodara’s Special Economic Zone. Accompanied by the transport commissioner and senior officials, Sarnaik evaluated the pod car technology being developed under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Currently, 70% of the components are manufactured domestically, with plans to increase local production to 85% by 2028, ensuring cost-effective manufacturing and low maintenance.
“This pod car will help solve congestion problems in Maharashtra using the state-of-the-art technology of the Futran system,” Sarnaik stated. “We have evaluated its potential deployment across multiple corridors in Maharashtra, with an immediate focus on Mira-Bhayandar Road.” The system is designed to operate 24/7, decongesting urban traffic effectively.
The proposed pod taxi system will seamlessly integrate with the existing metro network, providing efficient connections between metro stations and various destinations. This integration aims to enhance the utilization of Mumbai’s metro services and reduce congestion in high-density areas. The Futran system features a small turning radius, compact station design, and ease of deployment along existing roads. Each pod car can accommodate up to 20 passengers, operating at speeds of 60-70 km/h using onboard electric motors and battery systems. Safety measures include an onboard collision avoidance system and a 25-meter following distance.
Elevated six meters above road level, the pod cars will run on tracks supported by compact pillars measuring less than 1m x 1m. This high-capacity transit system is expected to transport over 15,000 passengers per direction per hour.
In parallel, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has approved a pod taxi project for the Bandra-Kurla Complex. M/s Sai Green Mobility Private Limited from Hyderabad has been appointed as the concessionaire on a public-private partnership basis. The Letter of Intent was issued on September 10, 2024, and the Concessionaire Agreement was signed on October 9, 2024. The concessionaire has been granted a year to obtain the necessary approvals and clearances for project implementation.
These initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The MMRDA is also undertaking significant infrastructure projects, including a 5.5-kilometer tunnel from Gaimukh to the Fountain Hotel junction at Shilphata and a creek bridge linking Bhayandar to Ghodbunder Road. These projects aim to reduce travel time and decongest key routes, thereby improving the overall transportation network.
The introduction of pod taxi systems in Maharashtra represents a significant step towards modernizing urban transport. By adopting advanced technologies and integrating them with existing infrastructure, the state aims to provide efficient, sustainable, and reliable transportation solutions for its residents.
By focusing on innovative transportation solutions like the pod taxi system, Maharashtra is poised to address urban congestion challenges effectively, offering residents improved connectivity and contributing to the state’s sustainable development goals.
