Pune Metro Launches E-Bike Rentals as a Solution for First and Last Mile Transportation

To improve passenger convenience and enhance connectivity for the first and last mile, Pune Metro has partnered with a private e-bike rental service provider. This collaboration will offer e-bike services at a rate of Rs 1.5 per minute.

Pune Metro has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TS Switch E-Ride Pvt Ltd, aiming to boost Metro ridership. Initially, TS Switch E-Ride will launch its service at ten designated Metro stations, including PCMC, Sant Tukaram Nagar, Nashik Phata, Dapodi, Shivajinagar, Mandai, Swargate, Ruby Hall Clinic, Anand Nagar, and Vanaz. There will be 50 e-bikes available at the start.

According to a Pune Metro official, “In the initial phase, the service will operate between Metro stations and locations where secure docking stations can be established, such as educational institutions, corporate or IT parks, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), large residential societies, and government offices.”

The e-bike service will have a maximum speed of 25 km per hour and can accommodate two passengers. The bikes will feature a battery that supports both plug-in and swapping models, allowing for a range of up to 80 km on a single charge. Additionally, the service will include live tracking and geo-fencing capabilities.

The pricing for the e-bike rentals is structured as follows:

• – One hour – 55 rupees
• – Two hours – 110 rupees
• – Three hours – 165 rupees
• – Four hours – 200 rupees
• – Six hours – 305 rupees
• – For 24 hours – 450 rupees

An official stated, “This initiative will significantly improve first-and last-mile connectivity, making Pune Metro an even more efficient and convenient mode of transport for commuters.”

To use this service, commuters will need to download the mobile app, complete their KYC verification, and register. The app is available on the Google Play Store. The service promises enhanced safety, seamless operation, live tracking, customer support, and geo-fencing. In the future, this e-bike service will be integrated into Pune Metro’s digital platform mobile app for easier access. Dedicated battery charging stations for both plug-in and swapping will be set up at the respective metro stations.

Currently, Pune Metro’s daily ridership is around 1.6 lakh and is anticipated to grow progressively. The underground corridor of Pune Metro’s Phase 1 was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, making the 33.2 km first phase operational for passenger service.