Cycling, for most people, is an inseparable part of childhood. One usually starts cycling as an outdoor activity before pedalling across the street to run a few errands. However, growing up in a city like Delhi, it is not very often that we see people cycling to work or even enjoying a ride around the neighbourhood.
The switchover to motorised vehicles has not only turned Delhi into a congested city but is also choking it mercilessly. Realising the need for an efficient connective link, Delhi Development Authority is all set to implement the Public Bicycle Sharing (PBS) system in Dwarka. The idea is to use cycles as a public transport system in order to make short and quick trips.
Point to point
The DDA, along with the Centre for Green Mobility, is working on the PBS project, which envisages allowing individuals to borrow bikes from one point and return it to another designated cycle station with open docks, like in many European nations, especially Paris.
If implemented successfully, tentatively by next year, Dwarka residents will be able to pedal to a metro station, park the bicycle at a designated stand near the station and hop on the train.
As part of the PBS system, bicycles would be stationed at self-service terminals. Individuals registered with the service can identify themselves with a smart card at any of the terminals to check out the bike.
Free ride
After a ride, which would be free for the first 29 minutes, one can return the bike at any terminal. The operator will be transporting it back to its terminal, which is yet to be identified.
Anuj Malhotra, Chief Executive Officer of Centre for Green Mobility, an advisor on the project, says, “There is an eco-system to be developed with lanes for Non-Motorized Vehicles, bicycle terminals, walking zones, etc. It would be a fully automated system, which would be an example for India.”
The system will have durable, unisex cycles with GPS tracking, flat pedals and automatic lights. Besides, unique features will be included to protect one against thefts.
System in place
A complaint redressal and incident management system will be in place in case of breakdowns, accidents, health conditions, non-availability of bicycles and surveillance.
PK Sarkar, a noted professor of Transport Planning says, “It is a good idea to have a cycle sharing project in a purely residential area. PBS is a success in many European cities. It is good for last mile connectivity.”
He, however, warned against emulating the West and creating a disaster similar to cycle terminals and tracks on BRT. “It should be ensured that NMV lanes are interconnected with the cycle junctions, the design is vetted by a public safety expert and DDA studies what is going to be the shift from autorickshaws and rickshaws to cycle.”
Rejimon CK, the head of Dwarka Forum, a body of residents, is sceptical about the project. Most of the residents look at it as a waste of public money.
“The cycle tracks made by DDA in the parks in Dwarka are not usable. Half of the lanes are non-motorable. There is no proper footpath and DDA is talking about PBS. To date, Dwarka residents have not been consulted. How would they decide where to make cycle terminals?”
However, Nalin Sinha, the convenor of Delhi Cycling Club says, “It is a welcome step but a high-end project. DDA should hold extensive public engagements rather than emulate foreign models. It should first be tested on a smaller scale and priority should be given to dedicated cycling lanes.”