Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 7: With the bhoomipujan of the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) pod taxi project on Tuesday, the city has taken a major step towards introducing a futuristic, on-demand transit system aimed at easing congestion in one of its busiest commercial hubs.
The project, officially known as the Automated Rapid Transit System (ARTS), will initially operate along a 3.36-km stretch connecting Kurla and Bandra East. The route will feature eight stations, including key points such as Kalanagar, MMRDA Old Building, Excise Department, Bharat Diamond Bourse Gate 11, LBS Marg, and Kurla, ensuring seamless connectivity within Bandra-Kurla Complex.
Planned as a driverless system, the pod taxis will carry up to six passengers and operate at speeds of up to 40 kmph, with pods arriving every 15 to 30 seconds. The service will be centrally controlled, allowing commuters to select routes with minimal stops, thereby reducing travel time.
Authorities have outlined a broader expansion plan, with the network expected to grow to 22 stations across 8.85 km by 2031. The system will include circular loops within BKC to enhance flexibility and improve last-mile connectivity for office-goers.
The project, estimated at Rs 1,016 crore, is being developed under a public-private partnership model by Sai Green Mobility. Notably, it is being implemented without direct government subsidy, with the operator set to pay an annual fee along with a share in revenue to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority.
Integration with existing metro lines is expected to further strengthen connectivity. The pod taxi network will link with Metro Line 3 at BKC and Metro Line 2B at multiple points, benefiting thousands of daily commuters.
With nearly 4 to 6 lakh people travelling to BKC ????????? and facing severe last-mile challenges due to narrow approach roads and rising traffic, the project is expected to significantly improve mobility in the area.
Globally, similar pod-based transit systems are already in use, including at Heathrow Airport, which operates a comparable network using Ultra PRT technology.
The BKC pod taxi system is targeted for completion by 2027, marking a significant shift in urban transport planning in India.