Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 12: In a forward-looking move aimed at tackling the ever-growing menace of traffic congestion and air pollution in Indian metros like Bengaluru and Delhi, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has revealed that the Centre is exploring futuristic modes of public transport, including aerial pod systems and flash-charging electric buses.
Speaking exclusively to NDTV, Gadkari emphasized that the government is committed to transforming India's transport sector with clean, efficient, and high-tech alternatives. “We are focusing on pollution-free and comfortable public transport. We have received 360 proposals, including many from international players,” he said.
The most talked-about innovation is the concept of "aerial pod taxis", popularly being dubbed as ‘flying buses.’ Contrary to what the term might suggest, these are not flying vehicles but advanced driverless electric pods running on elevated tracks—similar in concept to monorails but offering more comfort and flexibility. Each pod, resembling a double-decker bus, would have a capacity of up to 135 passengers.
“These will run on overhead rail systems and can either be suspended or mounted,” Gadkari explained. Proposals have come from global technology leaders, including companies from the USA, Europe, and Russia, but the minister made it clear that only economically viable and proven technologies will be selected.
A pilot project has already been identified in Nagpur—Gadkari’s home constituency—to test flash-charging electric buses. “These air-conditioned buses will offer services similar to airlines with hostesses and refreshments. Using technology from Siemens and Hitachi, the buses will be charged within 30 seconds at stops, giving them a 40-kilometre range,” the minister said.
He also stressed the need to reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuels, which currently costs the nation nearly Rs 22 lakh crores annually, and to encourage Indian society to prioritise public transport over private vehicles.
As urban congestion worsens in cities like Bengaluru, where daily commutes have become increasingly strenuous, the potential arrival of such innovative public transport systems brings a ray of hope to millions of commuters. However, much will depend on feasibility studies, successful pilot results, and policy support in the coming months.