KATHMANDU: Mumbai is set to introduce pod taxis as part of its public transport network to improve last-mile connectivity. The project is being developed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
The first phase will feature an 8 km-long elevated corridor linking Bandra and Kurla. A total of 33 stations are planned along the route, connecting key commercial buildings with metro lines and the suburban railway network.
The pod taxis will be electric and fully driverless. Each pod will be around 3.5 meters long and designed to carry 5 to 8 passengers. The pods are expected to operate at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
For safety and navigation, the vehicles will be equipped with radar, cameras, and GPS systems. These systems will allow the pods to detect obstacles and hazards in real time.
MMRDA officials say the first phase could become operational within the next few years. The project is intended to shorten travel times.
The pod taxi concept originated in the United States in the 1970s and is now used in several countries due to its efficient autonomous operating system.
Its growth is driven by traffic congestion in cities like Kathmandu, where electric pod taxis offer a zero-emission public transport solution.
