Mumbai: In a significant push towards enhancing last-mile connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has initiated steps to implement pod taxi and ropeway systems.
These alternative transport solutions aim to improve accessibility to metro stations, railway terminals, ports, and other key transit points, including the rapidly developing Mira-Bhayandar region.
"As part of this initiative, the MMRDA is in the process of appointing a consultant to prepare a comprehensive master plan for the proposed systems. The Maharashtra government has issued directives to accelerate the implementation of these projects, emphasizing seamless connectivity across the urban transport network," a senior MMRDA official said.
"It will be the consultant who will advise on which system needs to be implemented, where it should be done besides the cost and other details," the official added.
Meanwhile, in a major development, M/s Sai Green Mobility Private Limited, a Hyderabad-based firm, has been appointed as the concessionaire for the implementation of a pod taxi system in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The Letter of Intent was issued to the company on September 10, 2024, followed by the signing of the Concessionaire Agreement on October 9, 2024.
At present, the concessionaire, in coordination with the MMRDA, is working towards securing the necessary approvals and clearances for the project’s execution. Once implemented, the pod taxi system in BKC is expected to revolutionize intra-city travel by offering a swift, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transport in one of Mumbai’s busiest business districts.
With these developments, MMRDA’s efforts to integrate advanced transport solutions highlight Mumbai’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility and enhanced commuter convenience.
