BKC Pod Taxi Project Secures Coastal Authority Nod Amid Environmental Concerns

The long-delayed Automated Rapid Transit System (ARTS) at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), widely known as the pod taxi project, has secured approval from the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA).

According to Hindustan Times report, the clearance paves the way for the Rs 1,016.34 crore initiative, which aims to strengthen last-mile connectivity to Mumbai’s prime business district, catering to an estimated 400,000–600,000 commuters daily.

According to the approved proposal, the project will impact 0.14 hectares of mangroves and necessitate the felling of 431 trees. About 58.48 metres of its alignment will pass over mangrove areas along the banks near BKC.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has approached the Tree Authority for clearance to cut the trees.

Currently, many office-goers rely on BEST buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis from Bandra and Kurla stations. However, commuters frequently cite erratic bus services and steep auto fares, particularly for short distances.

Enforcement bodies, including the traffic police, RTO, and MMRDA, have been criticised for failing to resolve these long-standing issues.

The MMRDA’s proposal highlights that conventional public transport in BKC is often inefficient, with large buses running nearly empty during off-peak hours.

The planned ARTS, a zero-emission, on-demand network will operate autonomous, electric-powered pods on an 8.01 km elevated corridor between Bandra and Kurla.

Twenty-one strategically located stations will feature ticket counters, escalators, waiting lounges, and charging docks.

Officials say the project will reduce travel time within BKC and lessen dependence on fossil fuel transport.

Environmental groups, however, are expected to monitor the mangrove and tree clearance process closely before construction begins.

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