As the pod taxi plan for Bandra-Kurla Complex progresses slowly, the state government is now considering a new route to introduce the vehicles. Plans are underway to connect Mira-Bhayandar with Thane-Ghodbunder, aiming to ease urban traffic congestion and improve connectivity between railway and metro stations.
State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who recently visited Vadodara to inspect the pod car being developed, confirmed the new route. Accompanied by the transport commissioner, senior delegates, and an MLA from Gujarat, Sarnaik visited the Futran Experience Centre of Nutran EV Mobility in Vadodara’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Wagodiya.
Futran’s development aligns with the Make in India initiative, with 70% of components already domestically produced and a target of 85% local production by 2028. This ensures cost-effective manufacturing, low maintenance, and sustainability for Indian urban transport.
“This pod car system will help alleviate congestion in Maharashtra with state-of-the-art Futran technology, offering a viable solution to urban traffic challenges,” Sarnaik stated. “We are evaluating its deployment across multiple corridors in Maharashtra, with immediate focus on Mira-Bhayandar Road. The Futran system is designed to operate 24/7, significantly reducing congestion.”
According to sources in the delegation, the system could seamlessly integrate with the existing metro network, providing efficient last-mile connectivity between metro stations and various source and destination points. The Futran system is expected to enhance metro rail utilization across Mumbai and the MMR region.
The pod car system features a small turning radius, compact station design, and smooth deployment along existing roads. Each pod car can accommodate up to 20 passengers, operates at speeds of 60-70 kmph with onboard electric motors and battery systems, and runs 24/7. It is also equipped with a collision avoidance system and maintains a 25-meter following distance.
The pod cars will operate six meters above road level, supported by compact tracks and stations requiring only 4-6 small pillars of less than 1m x 1m. This high-capacity transit system is designed to transport over 15,000 passengers per hour per direction.
Meanwhile, MMRDA has appointed M/s Sai Green Mobility Private Limited from Hyderabad as the Concessionaire for the pod taxi project in BKC on a PPP basis. “A Letter of Intent was issued on September 10, 2024, followed by the signing of the Concessionaire Agreement on October 9, 2024. They have one year to secure necessary approvals and clearances for project implementation,” said an MMRDA official.
