Mumbai Transport Services: Water Taxis, Pod Cars, And Underground Parking Coming Soon

Mumbai's transport network may soon see a major transformation, with plans for water transport, underground parking, and pod taxis in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), according to a Mid-day report. State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced on Wednesday that these projects would help address the city's growing transport issues.

Mumbai Water Transport

Sarnaik highlighted that several major global cities have a strong water transport system, but Mumbai lacks a similar facility. He emphasised that Mumbai's creeks and rivers are deep enough to support water transport and revealed that the government has commissioned a study on this matter. The development plan is expected to be submitted in the next two to three months. The proposed system may include Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) services, ropeways, water taxis, and a water metro.

The minister acknowledged past unsuccessful attempts to establish water transport but pointed out that those were isolated projects. He stressed that government intervention at the policy level would ensure proper implementation.

He also mentioned that multiple agencies, such as the Maharashtra Maritime Board and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), will be involved in setting up and operating the system. Additionally, the government is considering forming a dedicated water transport corporation to manage all related operations.

Underground Parking Near Railway And Metro Stations

Addressing Mumbai's severe parking shortage, Sarnaik proposed the construction of large underground parking facilities near railway and Metro stations. These parking hubs will be designed to meet modern standards, offering amenities similar to shopping malls. He suggested that the inclusion of small petrol pumps could further enhance convenience for commuters.

He noted that while bus depots were established near railway stations during British rule, the increasing use of private vehicles calls for new solutions. The proposed parking facilities aim to improve last-mile connectivity for those using public transport.

Pod Taxis And Ropeways For MMR

Sarnaik confirmed that work on the pod taxi project has already begun, with plans to launch an 8-km stretch between Bandra Kurla Complex and Kurla within the next two years. He assured that the project is being carefully monitored to avoid setbacks similar to the monorail system.

Additionally, the state government has received in-principle approval from Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari for the introduction of ropeways in the MMR. This initiative aims to provide an alternative mode of transport in congested areas and hilly terrains.