Pune: In a bid to improve last-mile connectivity for metro commuters, MahaMetro is set to introduce a paid e-bike rental service at selected metro stations on the Pune-Pimpri-Swargate and Vanaz-Ramwadi corridors. This initiative aims to provide a convenient transportation option for passengers after they exit the metro.
Initially, the service will be rolled out at ten metro stations, including PCMC, Sant Tukaram Nagar, Nashik Phata, Dapodi, Shivajinagar, Mandai, Swargate, Ruby Hall Clinic, Anand Nagar, and Vanaz. However, it will take at least 1.5 to 2 months for the service to become operational.
Pune Metro, which currently sees a daily ridership of approximately 1.6 lakh passengers, has partnered with TS Switch E-Ride to implement the e-bike service. As part of this agreement, 50 e-bikes under the brand ‘Switch E-Ride’ will be deployed at these metro stations. Commuters will be able to rent an e-bike using a mobile app or a QR code scanning system.
Once they have completed their journey, riders can return the e-bike either at the original pick-up location or at one of the designated docking centers. The locations of these docking stations will be finalized based on a survey conducted by the e-bike provider, and the information will be announced soon. Pune Metro will also integrate an e-bike booking feature within its mobile app for added convenience.
According to MahaMetro Director Hemant Sonawane, commuters will need to complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) verification and adhere to the rental company’s policies before using the service.
Features of the E-Bike Service
Speed: Up to 25 km/h
Capacity: Can accommodate 2 people, with a maximum weight limit of 150 kg
Battery: Supports both plug-in charging and battery swapping models
Range: Can travel up to 80 km on a single full charge
Battery Swapping: Can be done in less than 5 minutes
Mobile App Integration: E-bikes can be started and locked via a smartphone app
SOS Button: Available on the mobile app for emergency assistance
Live Tracking and Geo-Fencing: Ensures safety and ease of use
Rental Charges for E-Bikes
Passengers will be able to rent e-bikes at affordable rates, with rental charges set as follows:
₹1.50 per minute
₹55 per hour
₹110 for 2 hours
₹165 for 3 hours
₹200 for 4 hours
₹305 for 6 hours
₹450 for 24 hours