The MMRDA gave the contract for the Rs 1,100-crore project to Sai Green Mobility Private Limited in 2024. (Express Photo)The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has decided to hire an independent engineering company to supervise a project to link the Kurla railway station (west) and the Bandra railway station (east) with Bandra-Kurla Complex through an automated, battery-driven pod taxi system, officials said.“Usually, general consultants take care of tracking progress. Engineers for these projects are generally from within the MMRDA. But in the case of the pod taxi project, a team of external engineers will be hired exclusively for technical monitoring,” said an official.The MMRDA gave the contract for the Rs 1,100-crore project to Sai Green Mobility Private Limited in 2024. The project will also be executed through a special-purpose vehicle called BKC Connect Private Limited.The MMRDA said it was carrying out development work worth almost Rs 1.2 lakh crore in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.The government has floated a tender for the purpose. The chosen engineering company will be required to scrutinise the project design, suggest changes if needed, and ensure compliance with all technical specifications. The company will have 18 engineers specialising in relevant technologies.The planned pod taxi will run between 38 stations linking Kurla, BKC, and Bandra. The pods are expected to reach every station every 15-30 seconds, providing frequent services on the route. The fare for the entire Kurla-Bandra route through BKC is estimated to be approximately Rs 105.This pod taxi system is a part of the MMRDA’s initiative to enhance last-mile connectivity and cut travel time. The construction work for the pod taxi project is likely to commence shortly after the independent engineering consultants are appointed.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:Bandra-Kurla Complex