DULT to setup e-bicycle system in Malleswaram for enhanced neighborhood connectivity

DULT to set up e-bicycle system in Malleshwaram, Bengaluru to address first & last mile connectivity. GIZ, Bosch & GUMI-LL collaborating to promote cycling & reduce traffic congestion. Residents welcome initiative & suggest expanding to other parts of area & connecting to metro stations. P2P survey shows 1.42% prefer bicycles & 0.78% use to reach metro/bus stops. Companies providing shared bicycles to employees can solve end mile problems in most efficient, carbon-neutral way.

To improve the Public Bicycle Sharing(PBS) system in Bengaluru, the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) will set up a pedal assisted bicycles (e-bicycles) system in Malleshwaram .

The DULT has recently issued an invitation for Expression of Interest (EOI) to establish an electric PBS system for servicing ward numbers 45 and 55 in the Malleshwaram locality. According to DULT authorities, the primary objective of implementing the e-bicycle system is to address the connectivity challenges for the first and last mile within the neighborhood.

“For this, DULT is collaborating with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit(GIZ) (the German development agency) and Bosch Ltd under the aegis of Green Urban Mobility innovation Living Lab (GUMI-LL) to develop sustainable, inclusive and smart mobility solutions through a multi-stakeholder platform,” the DULT stated in the EOI document.

A senior DULT official said, “DULT and GUMI-LL are collaborating closely with the Malleshwaram community to introduce a PBS system featuring pedal-assisted bicycles (e-bicycles). The objective of the project is to promote cycling for first and last mile trips within the neighborhood by providing shared electric bicycles.”

Operators interested should be able to do so for three years after installation. According to DULT, the components of the electric bicycles include having basic specifications like unisex design, durable, lightweight, theft proof, heavy-duty rims, puncture resistant tires, light reflectors and LED lights to make the bicycles more visible to vehicles during night.

Suchithra Prasad, a resident of Malleshwaram, termed it a welcome initiative. “It is a welcome initiative in our neighborhood. It promises to enhance our daily commute by addressing first and last-mile connectivity issues. These pedal-assisted bicycles will not only reduce traffic congestion, but also contribute to a cleaner and greener environment. I look forward to the positive impact it will bring to our community,” she said.