Mumbai's Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) will soon see the launch of a groundbreaking Pod Taxi system, approved by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Sai Green Mobility Private Limited, in collaboration with Ultra PRT, will design, develop, and operate this fully autonomous transit system. With the capacity to operate every 15 to 30 seconds, the Pod Taxi aims to address the increasing demand for efficient last-mile connectivity due to anticipated infrastructure expansions. Fares will be INR 21 per km, with a 4% annual increase. The project, estimated at INR 1016.34 crore, represents a major step in enhancing Mumbai's urban mobility.
During the 282nd Executive Committee meeting of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), chaired by the Chief Secretary, M/s. Sai Green Mobility Private Limited has been approved as the Concessionaire for the Automated Rapid Transit System (Pod Taxi) in the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC). This firm has teamed up with M/s. Ultra PRT, a technology provider with a successful track record, including the operational Pod Taxi system at Heathrow Airport, London. The project aims to transform last-mile connectivity within BKC, serving the 4 to 6 lakh commuters who travel to and from the business district daily.
With expected increase in footfall due to new infrastructure like the bullet train and additional commercial buildings, efficient last-mile connectivity is crucial. The fully autonomous Pod Taxi system, capable of operating every 15 to 30 seconds, is ideal for the narrow roads linking BKC to Bandra and Kurla suburban stations.
The decision to implement the Pod Taxi system follows a detailed Techno-Economic Feasibility Study (TEFS) conducted by MMRDA, which evaluated various global technologies. The study, peer-reviewed by M/s. Tata Consulting Engineers, recommended the Pod Taxi system for BKC due to its fit with the region's topography and projected traffic growth.
Fares for the Pod Taxi system have been carefully determined based on preference surveys among current auto and bus users. Currently, commuters pay INR 15.33 per km by metered auto and INR 30 to 40 for sharing an auto per passenger for trips to BKC from Bandra or Kurla. Taxi users pay INR 18.67 per km, while Ola and Uber drivers often charge dynamic rates ranging from INR 80 to 100 for the short 2-3 km journey from the stations to BKC.
The surveys indicated that about 70% of auto users and 36% of bus users are willing to pay INR. 21 per km for the Pod Taxi service. Therefore, the TEFS study proposed a fare of INR. 21 per km, with a 4% annual increase to cover inflation and operational costs. MMRDA will announce the rates during the project's conditions precedent phase.
Approved during MMRDA's 156th Authority Meeting on March 6, 2024, the project is estimated to cost INR 1016.34 crore on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis. The financial model, developed by the TEFS consultant and reviewed by M/s. TCE, includes a three-year construction period and a 30-year concession period. This model features a fixed concession fee and a revenue-sharing arrangement with MMRDA.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, commented, "The Pod Taxi project in BKC marks a significant step towards enhancing urban mobility in one of Mumbai's busiest business districts. This system will not only improve last-mile connectivity but also reduce congestion and provide a modern, efficient mode of transportation for daily commuters."
Shri Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Chairman of MMRDA, added, "This innovative project reflects our commitment to adopting advanced technology solutions for urban challenges. The Pod Taxi system will serve as a model for future urban transport projects across India, ensuring sustainable and efficient mobility for our citizens. The rollout of the Pod Taxi system in BKC marks a significant milestone in MMRDA's ongoing efforts to improve Mumbai's infrastructure and deliver world-class urban transport solutions."
In conclusion, The Pod Taxi system in BKC represents a significant leap forward in urban transport, promising to improve last-mile connectivity, reduce congestion, and provide a modern, efficient travel option for thousands of daily commuters. This innovative project not only addresses current transportation challenges but also sets a precedent for future urban mobility solutions across Indi
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