Hyderabad plans Pod Taxi System to enhance Last-Mile Connectivity for Metro commuters

Hyderabad, India (Metro Rail Today): Hyderabad may soon introduce a Pod Taxi system based on Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) technology to strengthen last-mile connectivity for metro commuters across key business and residential districts of the city.

The proposed system aims to provide fast, convenient and environmentally friendly transport links between metro stations, IT hubs, commercial centers, and nearby residential areas, helping commuters complete their journeys more efficiently.

The planned pod taxi network will consist of small driverless electric pods operating on elevated guideways, independent of road traffic. The system is designed to provide on-demand mobility with shorter waiting times and direct point-to-point travel.

Each pod is expected to accommodate 6 to 8 passengers and operate at speeds of up to 40 km/h.

According to preliminary plans, the system could handle up to 10,000 passengers per hour, making it suitable for high-demand corridors connecting major metro stations and employment hubs.

The initial phase of the project is expected to focus on key technology and commercial clusters where demand for last-mile connectivity is high.

Proposed routes include:

• Rayadurgam – Kukatpally

• Rayadurgam – Hitech City

• Financial District

• Knowledge City

• Secretariat surroundings

These areas include some of Hyderabad’s largest IT parks, corporate offices, and residential communities, which generate significant commuter traffic every day.

The pod taxi system will run on electric or battery-powered technology, making it a zero-emission urban transport solution.

By operating on dedicated elevated tracks, the system can avoid road congestion and offer faster and more reliable travel compared to traditional road-based last-mile transport options.

Such systems are increasingly being explored in major cities worldwide as part of smart urban mobility solutions.

Commenting on the initiative, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said that pod taxi systems can play an important role in strengthening urban transit networks.

“Last-mile connectivity remains one of the biggest challenges for metro systems in rapidly growing cities. Innovative solutions such as pod taxis can complement metro networks by providing efficient, sustainable, and seamless connectivity between stations and key urban destinations,” she said.

Hyderabad already operates one of India’s largest metro networks, serving millions of commuters across the city. The introduction of a Personal Rapid Transit system could further enhance the overall public transport ecosystem by bridging the gap between metro stations and final destinations.

If successfully implemented, the pod taxi project could significantly reduce travel time, ease congestion, and improve commuter convenience, positioning Hyderabad as a leader in smart and future-ready urban mobility solutions.