In a significant development, the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (Yeida) has announced an expansion of its pioneering pod taxi project, now extending its route from Film City to Greater Noida’s Pari Chowk. This expansion is set to cover an impressive distance of approximately 25 kilometers, linking Jewar to Pari Chowk, and promises to bolster connectivity in the region.
Initially, Yeida had devised a detailed project report outlining a 12-kilometer pod taxi route from the Noida International Greenfield Airport in Jewar to Sector 21, where the ambitious Film City project is envisioned. To facilitate the project’s execution, Yeida recently initiated a tender process, attracting interest from seven reputed international companies eager to take on this innovative transportation venture.
Interested parties seeking to undertake the 12-kilometer pod taxi project have until August 10th to submit their tender applications. On August 16th, Yeida is slated to unveil the bids for this estimated ₹641 crore project, with expectations of finalizing the selected company within the ensuing two to three months. According to Arun Vir Singh, the CEO of Yeida, the overarching objective is to establish a comprehensive multi-modal network connecting Jewar Airport with neighboring regions, comprising metro corridors, pod taxis, and new roadways.
The meticulously crafted detailed project report outlines a route encompassing 12 stations, forming a vital link between the two major projects within the Yeida area. Commencing from the Film City, the route will traverse through significant points such as Rabupura village, Sector 34, the intersection of sectors 28 and 33, Toy Park, the junction of sectors 29 and 32 on a 100-meter-wide road, Apparel Park, Sector 29, the junction of sectors 29 and 32 on a 75-meter-wide road, MSME Park, and Handicraft Park.
Officials are optimistically eyeing a project completion date by the close of 2024, which aligns with the anticipated operational launch of the first phase of the Jewar Airport. With the Pari Chowk extension, the pod taxi network is poised to span a commendable 25 kilometers, catering to the transportation needs of the local populace. According to the authorities, each station will host a pod taxi service, boasting an impressive frequency of 20 seconds between each departure. The pricing strategy is projected at ₹8 per kilometer, ensuring affordability and accessibility for an estimated 37,000 daily passengers.
The impetus for this pioneering venture came from the Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited, which highlighted similar successful pod taxi projects in global locations such as South Korea, London, and Abu Dhabi. Following the endorsement of the bid document and detailed project report by both Yeida and the Uttar Pradesh government, the project embarked on its tender issuance journey last month. As the project gains momentum, it is set to revolutionize regional connectivity and underscore India’s commitment to innovative and sustainable transportation solutions.
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