The Telangana government is exploring a pod based transport system to improve last mile connectivity for commuters using the Hyderabad Metro Rail. Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) has initiated steps to assess the feasibility of an automated personal rapid transit network, according to a report in The Hindu. The move is being framed as an effort to provide seamless links between metro stations and the areas where commuters live and work.

The proposed system would use small battery operated pods designed to carry four to six passengers and to operate without onboard drivers. The pods are intended to run as part of an automated network capable of handling up to 10,000 passengers per hour in aggregate. The design aims to connect metro stations to nearby residential neighbourhoods and commercial areas and to bridge the gap between stations and commuters' final destinations.

To advance the plan, HMRL floated a tender last month to appoint a consultant for a techno economic feasibility study and related design work. The selected agency will also be tasked with preparing the system design and overseeing the bidding process for project implementation. The pilot corridor is proposed along the Raidurg–Kukatpally stretch and would link busy locations including Raidurg, Hi-Tec City, the Financial District and Secretariat.

Officials expect the pilot to demonstrate whether personal rapid transit can offer a reliable, low emission feeder option and reduce road congestion without imposing major infrastructure footprints. Final decisions on procurement and construction will follow the consultant's recommendations and the completion of the bidding process. The feasibility assessment will examine operational safety, energy consumption, fleet sizing, station integration and fare integration to determine whether the system can be scaled efficiently. If the pilot proves viable, authorities may expand the network to other corridors to strengthen metro feeder services.