Public bike sharing service in Bhopal may face shutdown

 

 

The Smart Cycle Sharing Service, a key initiative for promoting environmental conservation and reducing traffic congestion for city residents, is currently shrouded in uncertainty. The Smart City Corporation’s contract with the chartered company is set to expire in November, with no positive movement on a potential extension. This has put the popular smart cycle option, utilised by commuters for offices, schools, and coaching centres, in jeopardy. Launched on June 25, 2017, the Public Bike Sharing (PBS) Scheme was previously honoured with the ‘Urban Environment’ award. According to company data, the service has seen over 40,000 registered users since its inception, with a new user joining approximately every five minutes.

 

The service records an average of 1,000 rides daily. However, the current infrastructure of just 500 bicycles and 55 stations is reported to be lagging significantly behind its growing user base. Sumit Sen, the Smart Cycle Manager, confirmed the operational issues, stating, “Maintenance of the smart bikes and stations is continuous. Damaged cycles are immediately fixed in the workshop. However, discussions regarding the contract extension have yielded no positive result.” The Smart City Corporation is reportedly reluctant to grant an extension. Citizens have voiced their displeasure over the potential closure and the current State of the service.

 

Sakshi Yadav, a resident of Ashoka Garden, remarked, “The operation and maintenance don’t match the grand launch of this project. Instead of shutting it down, it should be improved to become more public-friendly. People genuinely like cycling.” The accompanying 12 km cycle track (from RRL Tiraha to Misrod) is also in a state of disrepair. Initially built at a cost of Rs 4.81 crore during the BRTS corridor construction, an additional Rs 1.40 crore was later spent on red paint and bollards. However, the lack of maintenance has resulted in potholes, mud, and the presence of stray animals becoming commonplace. Construction material is scattered across areas like Vidyanagar, Bagsevania, and Misrod, effectively blocking the pathway. Furthermore, the track is severely affected by encroachment from street vendors and kiosks. With no action from the municipal corporation, more than two dozen such stalls are flourishing in locations like Bawadia Kalan and Ashima Mall. The 5-meter-wide track remains largely empty, used by a few enthusiasts in the morning, but often becoming a parking spot for vehicles or a space for tethering cattle during the rest of the day.