Why Does Maharashtra Minister Thinks Cable Taxis, His 'Dream Project', Could Solve Mumbai's Traffic Woes?

Mumbai: The city’s traffic woes may soon be alleviated by a futuristic mode of transport. Maharashtra's newly appointed Transport Minister, Pratap Sarnaik, has proposed the introduction of a cable taxi system in Mumbai and its surrounding areas. This ambitious "dream project" aims to reduce road congestion by offering an innovative alternative to traditional road transport.

Taking charge as transport minister, Sarnaik outlined his vision for a more efficient and sustainable transport network in Mumbai. With the city facing severe traffic issues due to overcrowded roads, the idea of introducing cable taxis has gained traction. “Cable taxis are very popular in European countries and widely used there,” Sarnaik told India Today TV. He said that with the increasing number of vehicles on Mumbai’s roads, road space has become limited, and it is essential to look for alternative transport solutions.

The proposed cable taxi system would consist of small, driverless pods that operate on overhead cables, travelling above road traffic. Sarnaik explained that the system would not only reduce road congestion but also provide a pollution-free transport option. “If we can run metro systems above ground, operating cable taxis won’t be an issue. These taxis don’t require much space for installation and could be a real game-changer for the region,” he said.

These cable taxis, or "pod taxis," would operate on elevated guideways, providing a smooth, uninterrupted ride for passengers. The system would also ensure point-to-point travel without delays or congestion, a major benefit for daily commuters in the city. Additionally, cable taxis run on electricity, with some even using solar power, making them an eco-friendly option.

Cable taxis, which are becoming increasingly popular in Europe, are small vehicles designed to carry a fixed number of passengers, often 15 to 20. They are driverless and operate on a network of overhead cables, making them independent of road traffic. This system allows passengers to travel without being affected by the usual traffic jams.

The concept was first explored in India in 2017 when the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) proposed a similar system to address Bengaluru's severe traffic problems. However, the plan was scrapped in 2018 due to high costs and concerns over its feasibility.

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