Maharashtra plans to extend the proposed pod taxi network from Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to Thane, Mira-Bhayandar and Navi Mumbai once the system is operational in BKC, state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said.
Speaking in an interview, Sarnaik said the initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen public transport and improve connectivity across Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
“The pod taxi concept is a dream project of our Chief Minister and both Deputy Chief Ministers,” Sarnaik said, adding that the system is intended to improve connectivity and make daily travel more convenient. “Once it is implemented in BKC, we are planning to take pod taxis to Mira-Bhayandar, Thane and Navi Mumbai as well,” he said.
BKC, one of Mumbai’s major commercial hubs, is expected to undergo further infrastructure expansion, including the development of a station linked to the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project. The pod taxi system is being proposed as an additional transport option for the area, where growing commuter movement has increased pressure on existing roads and public transport services.
Sarnaik said the state is working towards upgrading Mumbai’s infrastructure and bringing newer transport systems to the region.
“We are now trying to bring to Mumbai the kind of infrastructure that European countries had 25 or 30 years ago,” he said. The minister acknowledged that some infrastructure projects have taken time but said significant changes could be visible across the region over the next five years.
He also highlighted the growing demand for feeder transport services, particularly BEST buses, as Mumbai’s population and daily commuter base continue to rise.
According to Sarnaik, the government is planning to add 5,000 electric buses to the BEST fleet while also developing additional bus depots. On the timeline, he said the process should progress quickly, with implementation expected within the next six to eight months.
The proposed pod taxi expansion and electric bus additions are aimed at increasing public transport capacity and improving connectivity across the MMR.
Source: NDTV Profit
