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The Directorate of Urban Transport is set to introduce e-bikes and e-cycles for rent across 15 districts, including Kanpur, Lucknow, and Varanasi, as part of a new initiative to modernise urban transport. The program will follow a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, similar to the existing e-bus system, aimed at offering residents an eco-friendly and accessible travel option.
Joint Director Jaideep Verma emphasized that this new service would allow citizens to access transportation up to their final destination, making commuting more efficient. By introducing rental e-bikes and e-cycles, the initiative is expected to enhance urban mobility, offering an affordable and practical solution for short-distance travel.
To ensure a smooth rollout, the Directorate of Urban Transport has coordinated with local Municipal Corporations to gather essential data, including information on routes, potential charging stations, and parking areas. This data will inform the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, which will finalize the execution of the project. Properly planned charging stations and designated parking spots will ensure that users have easy access to the bikes and cycles when needed.
The introduction of e-bikes and e-cycles is expected to ease congestion and improve public transport efficiency, potentially increasing revenue within the sector due to better passenger management. The Directorate is also reviewing the availability of existing e-bikes and e-cycles under the Smart City initiative and other local schemes to integrate these resources into the new system. Identifying appropriate locations for charging stations and parking zones is a crucial step in supporting the successful implementation of this project.
Drawing from the success of the PPP model with urban buses in cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi, the government aims to replicate this success with e-bikes and e-cycles. This initiative is not just about improving mobility but also promoting a cleaner, more sustainable mode of transport. The introduction of e-bikes and e-cycles in 15 districts marks a significant milestone in transforming urban transport, making daily commuting more convenient and environmentally friendly for residents.