Even as several transport experts urge a rethink on the upcoming pod taxi project in Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has moved ahead — approaching the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for forest clearance. The automated pod taxi route runs close to mangrove forests, making the clearance mandatory before any construction can begin.

In September 2024, at its 282nd executive committee meeting chaired by the chief secretary, MMRDA approved the appointment of M/s Sai Green Mobility Private Limited as the concessionaire to develop, construct, test, commission, operate, and maintain the Automated Rapid Transit System (Pod Taxi) in BKC. The company has partnered with M/s Ultra PRT, a technology provider known for implementing the pod taxi system at Heathrow Airport in London.

MMRDA claims the project will revolutionise last-mile connectivity in BKC — catering to the 4 to 6 lakh commuters who travel in and out of the business district daily. With future developments like the bullet train terminal and new commercial complexes, the agency argues that the demand for quick, efficient last-mile transport will only grow.