by Dev Vasu Dwivedi
Jan 23 2025
Noida’s Leap into the Future: Pod Taxis Set to Transform Urban Travel Jewar Airport to Film City
The New Yamuna City, adjacent to the Noida International Airport in Jewar, is set to embrace the future with a cutting-edge Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, commonly known as pod taxis. This revolutionary transport initiative promises to enhance connectivity between the proposed Film City in Sector 21 and the airport, covering a 14.1 km stretch and seamlessly linking key sectors of the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) region. Designed to cater to the needs of modern urban development, the pod taxi system represents an intersection of innovation, sustainability, and real estate potential.
The Vision: World’s Longest Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) System
YEIDA has envisioned a state-of-the-art pod taxi network that combines efficiency with eco-friendliness. On July 1, 2023, a Request for Proposal (RFP) was floated for the development of the PRT system on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) basis. This ambitious project, estimated to cost ₹641.53 crore, is being executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model with a 35-year concession period, including two years for construction. The corridor will traverse major YEIDA sectors, including 21, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, and 35, ensuring easy access for residents, businesses, and travellers.
Global Interest in the Pod Taxi Project
The global tender for the project has attracted significant interest from renowned companies both in India and abroad. Eleven companies, including PRT UK, L&T, Systra France, Ultra PRT, Siemens, Tata, IRB Infrastructure, Intamin Transportation (Switzerland), Hyundai, Kalpataru, and Invest India, participated in a pre-bid meeting chaired by infrastructure and industrial development commissioner Manoj Kumar Singh. Queries regarding profit-sharing, grant status, and tender deadlines were discussed, showcasing the widespread enthusiasm for this futuristic initiative.
Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited, the organization behind the project’s detailed project report (DPR), collaborated with YEIDA to ensure the feasibility of this venture. The technical bids were opened on August 16, 2023, marking a significant milestone toward making the pod taxi system a reality.
Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective
One of the most remarkable features of the pod taxi system is its eco-friendliness. Operating on electricity or hydrogen engines, these driverless taxis promise zero carbon footprints, aligning perfectly with global environmental goals. This green mode of transport is not only cost-effective but also minimizes energy consumption compared to traditional metro systems. BJP MLA Dhirendra Singh highlighted in 2021 how pod taxis could transform public transport by providing a sustainable and modern solution for urban mobility.
A Closer Look at Pod Taxis Worldwide
YEIDA’s CEO Arun Vir Singh emphasized studying successful pod taxi systems in countries like Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. These nations have seamlessly integrated pod taxis into their urban infrastructure, offering a model for India’s ambitious venture. The learnings from these systems will help ensure that the Yamuna City pod taxis not only meet global standards but also address local commuting challenges effectively.
Opportunities for Real Estate Investors
For real estate investors, the introduction of the PRT system in the New Yamuna City is a game-changer. Improved connectivity significantly boosts property values and attracts potential buyers and businesses. The pod taxi corridor enhances the appeal of sectors it passes through, including 21, 28, 29, and 32. These areas are poised to witness increased demand for residential and commercial spaces, as seamless transport solutions make them ideal for both living and investment.
As the Yamuna City evolves into a well-connected urban hub, early investments in its real estate market could yield substantial returns. With the Film City and Noida International Airport serving as magnets for economic activity, properties in the vicinity are bound to appreciate, driven by superior infrastructure and accessibility.
Conclusion
The pod taxi system in the New Yamuna City is more than just a transport solution; it is a bold step toward creating a sustainable, futuristic urban ecosystem. As work on this project gains momentum under the leadership of the Yogi Adityanath-led government, real estate investors have a unique opportunity to capitalize on the transformative potential of this region. By investing in sectors connected by this innovative transport network, you not only secure a stake in the future of urban living but also contribute to a greener, smarter tomorrow.
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