Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has decided to appoint an independent engineering firm to oversee the much-anticipated pod taxi project that will connect Kurla, Bandra East and the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) through a battery-operated, automated system.
Unlike most infrastructure projects, where general consultants or internal MMRDA engineers handle progress tracking and technical supervision, this project will see a dedicated external team take charge of its engineering oversight. “This is a first-of-its-kind initiative for MMRDA. Since the pod taxi involves newer technologies, a team of external engineers will be hired specifically for detailed technical monitoring,” said an official from the authority as quoted by the Indian Express.
The Rs 1,100-crore contract for the project was awarded in 2024 to Sai Green Mobility Private Limited. The execution will be carried out via a special-purpose vehicle (SPV) named BKC Connect Private Limited, created specifically for the project.
The MMRDA, currently overseeing infrastructure development worth nearly Rs 1.2 lakh crore across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), has floated a tender to select an engineering company for the pod taxi project. The selected firm will be responsible for auditing the project design, suggesting changes if necessary, and ensuring adherence to technical standards and safety regulations. The firm will deploy a team of 18 specialised engineers with experience in transport and automation technologies.
Details Of Podi Taxi System
The pod taxi system is expected to revolutionise short-distance urban transport in the area. The network will include 38 stations across Kurla, Bandra, and BKC. The automated pods will arrive at stations every 15 to 30 seconds, enabling seamless, frequent connectivity. The fare for a complete trip across the corridor is projected to be around Rs 105.
This project is a key component of MMRDA’s broader plan to improve last-mile connectivity and reduce intra-city travel times in high-traffic business districts like BKC. The pod taxi will particularly benefit office-goers and daily commuters travelling between major transit hubs and the commercial complex.
Construction is expected to begin soon after the engineering consultants are finalised. With the addition of the independent engineering team, MMRDA aims to maintain high technical standards and ensure smooth execution of what could become one of Mumbai’s most innovative public transport projects.
