India’s first Pod Taxi network to link Thane, Navi Mumbai and Mira Bhayandar; Maharashtra Govt may set fares at about ₹30 for 1–2 km

Maharashtra has given the green light to a futuristic pod-taxi network that will connectThane, Navi Mumbai, and Mira-Bhayandar. 

The plan, approved by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and led by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), will run on elevated tracks using driverless, battery-powered pods.

India’s First Pod Taxi Network in Maharashtra 

Rapid urban growth in Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Mira-Bhayandar has put a lot of pressure on roads and public transport. By using an elevated system, the pod taxis can avoid street traffic and offer a faster, more efficient way to travel. 

According to the plans, there will be no major cost burden on local municipal corporations, since the project will run on a public–private partnership (PPP) model.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has shared that a trial route will run between Bhayander Pada Metro Station on Ghodbunder Road and Vihang Hills Circle in Thane.He also stressed that the pod taxi system is eco-friendly and will not cost Thane Municipal Corporation or the state government any money directly. 

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Pod Taxi Network: Features, Pricing & Impact

The pod-taxi system will run on elevated guideways, staying separate from road traffic. Each pod is expected to be small, electric, and automated, possibly running 24/7 for continuous service.

In Mira-Bhayandar, the project is estimated to cost around ₹1,000 crore, and construction could begin by March 2026.The fare is likely to be ₹30 for 1–2 km, according to officials.

If all goes well, the pod taxis will ease last-mile connectivity, reduce dependence on private vehicles, and lower pollution in these rapidly developing suburbs.

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