The Maharashtra state government advances plans to establish an innovative pod taxi network between Mira-Bhayandar and Thane-Ghodbunder. The project will solve heavy traffic problems in busy areas and create better transportation links between major transport centers that contain railway and metro stations. The State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the new pod taxi initiative during his visit to Vadodara, Gujarat to see the operational success of the system there.
Electric Pods to Ease Traffic and Boost Connectivity
The pod taxi system operates using battery-powered electric motors as an effective alternative mode of transportation. Users can find seating for 20 passengers within each pod while it travels at 60-70 km/h. The infrastructure requirements for this system remain low because the pods travel six meters above street level. The system requires limited space because its stations function using four to six small supporting structures.
As part of his Vadodara visit, Sarnaik observed the pod cars’ technological features including their collision avoidance systems and automatic 25-meter distance safety protocols. These pods have the ability to move 15,000 passengers in each direction at every hour which makes them an ideal choice for large-scale urban transportation needs. He showed optimism about implementing this model in Mira-Bhayandar as the second pod taxi project after Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) approval.
PPP Model for Pod Taxi Projects in Mumbai
Through the existing metro network, the newly integrated pod taxis enable passengers to move between metro stations and any destination without interruption. The new integration will actively resolve last-mile connectivity problems while enhancing regional public transportation performance. The pod taxi project functions through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model where government authorities provide essential land.
According to officials, the system is expected to be operational within three years. It is expected to not only ease traffic congestion but also provide a modern and efficient mode of transport, benefiting economically disadvantaged communities and people with disabilities by improving access to jobs and offering greater independence. The project is being developed by Sai Green Mobility Private Limited from Hyderabad.
