
Pune Metro is slowly but firmly becoming popular among Puneites, the city which was known for having most two-wheeler for commuting. However, today Pune Metro ridership stands at 1.6 lakh and to enhance the passenger convenience, Pune metro has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an e-ride company.
Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 29, 2024 first phase of Pune Metro which is 33.2 km was operational for passenger service. With a good ridership, Pune Metro signed with M/s TS Switch e-ride private limited on February 10, 2025 for first-and last-mile connectivity.
As part of this initiative, in the first phase, the firm will introduce this service at 10 selected metro stations viz PCMC, Sant Tukaram Nagar, Nashik Phata, Dapodi, Shivajinagar, Mandai, Swargate, Ruby Hall Clinic, Anand Nagar, and Vanaz. The service will be branded under ‘Switch E-Ride’ and will commence with 50 e-bikes.
“To avail of this service, commuters will need to download the mobile app, complete their KYC verification (any government-issued photo ID or address proof such as an electricity bill), and register. The mobile app is available on the Google Play Store (Android). The service will feature enhanced safety, seamless operation, live tracking, customer support, and geo-fencing. In the future, this service will be integrated into Pune Metro’s digital platform (mobile app) for easier access. Dedicated battery charging stations (plug-in and swapping) will be installed at the respective metro stations”, said the official at Pune Metro.
In the initial phase, the service will operate between metro stations and locations where secure docking stations can be set up, such as educational institutions, corporate/IT parks, SEZs, large residential societies, and government offices.
Key Features & Technical Specifications of the E-Bike:
*Speed: Maximum 25 km/h
*Capacity: 2 persons (up to 150 kg)
* Battery: Compatible with plug-in and swapping models
* Range per charge: Up to 80 km
* Battery swap time: Less than 5 minutes
* Emergency Assistance: SOS button on the mobile app
* Keyless Start: Turn on/off via the mobile app
* Live Tracking & Geo-fencing
Proposed Fare Structure:
* ₹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