The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is gearing up for a significant stride in transportation with its Pod Taxi project, which is slated to kick off within this year. Aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in Mumbai’s bustling commercial hub, the initiative will link Bandra railway station, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), and Kurla railway station.
MMRDA has issued a request for proposal, inviting interested parties to participate in the project under a DFBOT (Design Finance Build Operate and Transfer) model. This move comes after the project received the green light from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on March 5.
With BKC accommodating over 4 lakh office workers and an equal number of daily visitors, efficient transportation solutions are paramount. The proposed Pod Taxis, spanning 8.80 km within BKC, will include 38 stations along the route, aiming to streamline commuting for the bustling workforce.
The decision to expedite the tender process, opening bids from March 26 to April 29 and evaluating them by April 30, seems to be influenced by the looming Lok Sabha elections and the ensuing code of conduct. MMRDA’s strategic move aims to ensure seamless progress on the project without any election-related disruptions.
To participate in the bidding process, interested agencies are required to deposit an Earnest Money of Rs 1 crore. The project’s estimated cost stands at Rs 1,016.38 crore, with the selected contractor expected to complete construction within 24 months and operate the system for 30 years.
The visualized pod taxis will measure 3.5 meters in length, 1.47 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height, offering a comfortable ride for approximately six passengers per pod, with a maximum speed of 40 kmph. Additionally, a project depot will be established within the Bandra-Kurla Complex to facilitate operations.
