Mumbai’s Pod Taxi Approval Sparks Demand for Increased BEST Services

The recent approval of the ₹1,016 crore Pod Taxi project by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has ignited a fresh debate among transport experts and activists. The 8 km Pod Taxi route is set to connect Kurla with Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), a significant infrastructure venture aimed at improving urban mobility. However, this development has drawn criticism from various quarters who advocate for a different approach to addressing transportation challenges in BKC.

Transport experts argue that the substantial investment in the Pod Taxi project might overshadow more immediate and cost-effective solutions, such as enhancing the BEST bus services. The BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) system previously operated a dedicated bus lane in BKC as of 2016, which had proven effective in managing the daily commute of thousands of office-goers. At that time, over 150 BEST buses served the route, a system that was reportedly well-received by both commuters and MMRDA. However, the service was discontinued without a clear explanation, prompting calls for its revival.

Advocates for the BEST bus services argue that the existing infrastructure supports flexible and immediate upgrades. They contend that reintroducing and expanding BEST bus lanes could be a more efficient and economical solution compared to the high-cost Pod Taxi system. Activists highlight that procuring additional AC and electric buses could be accomplished swiftly, potentially addressing the high demand in BKC more effectively than the planned Pod Taxi system. Environmentalists and city activists are also critical of the Pod Taxi project, suggesting that the allocated ₹1,016 crore could be better spent on increasing the frequency and coverage of BEST buses. They argue that the costs of the Pod Taxi system, which includes elevated tracks and fixed routes, may not justify its benefits given the ready availability of flexible and cost-efficient bus services.

The BEST spokesperson has promised to review the demands for increased bus services and provide a response in due course. MMRDA Commissioner has defended the Pod Taxi project, citing its potential to enhance urban mobility, reduce congestion, and offer a modern transportation alternative. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has echoed this sentiment, positioning the Pod Taxi project as a forward-looking solution that aligns with the state’s commitment to advanced transportation technologies. As Mumbai grapples with these competing visions for its transport future, the debate highlights the challenges of balancing innovative infrastructure projects with the immediate needs of urban commuters.