Mumbai to Launch Pod Taxi Services for Efficient Last-Mile Travel

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Monday that Mumbai will introduce pod taxi services to improve last-mile connectivity and alleviate the city’s chronic traffic congestion. The initiative aims to integrate these innovative transport solutions with the city’s existing public transit network, offering seamless travel options for commuters.

The pod taxis, part of the Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, are fully automated, driverless electric vehicles that operate on elevated tracks, designed to transport small groups efficiently.

The pod taxi service will primarily serve the bustling business district between Kurla and Bandra railway stations, a critical area expecting increased commuter traffic due to the upcoming bullet train station and the new Mumbai High Court building.

During a project review meeting, Fadnavis emphasized the need to integrate pod taxis with Mumbai’s planned single-card system, which will streamline ticketing across all public transport modes, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.

Fadnavis also directed authorities to prioritize the development of Kurla and Bandra station precincts alongside the pod taxi project. The initiative includes connecting key buildings in the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to these stations via dedicated pod taxi routes, ensuring efficient access for professionals and visitors. This development is expected to reduce reliance on private vehicles, easing road congestion in one of Mumbai’s busiest commercial hubs.

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The introduction of pod taxis marks a significant step toward modernizing Mumbai’s transport infrastructure. By leveraging advanced technology, the city aims to address longstanding traffic challenges while promoting sustainable urban mobility. Authorities are now tasked with finalizing project timelines and ensuring seamless integration with existing systems, with further details on implementation expected soon.

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