Minister Khemchand launches app-based public bicycle sharing system
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, September 28 2022:
MAHUD minister Y Khemchand on Tuesday launched an app-based public bicycle sharing system at a function organised by Imphal Smart City Limited at the eastern gate of Kangla, Sanjenthong, here.
The launch function was attended by MAHUD commissioner M Joy, RIMS medical superintendent and Imphal Bicycle mayor Dr Nepram Sanjib among others.
Addressing the gathering, minister Khemchand said that the system launched on Tuesday would prove to be beneficial for tourists who would be visiting the state for the upcoming Sangai festival.
Thus, he urged for using and maintaining the system for long term so as to promote cycling in the state.
Delivering the keynote address, Imphal Smart City Limited CEO Th Harikumar said that around 100 bicycles will be in service and 20 different stations have been set up in this regard.
The stations are set up near Kangla moat, roads along GP Women's College and TG Higher Secondary School, Keishampat, Kwakeithel and key tourist points such as the airport.
Plans are being made to set up stations along MU route at Secretariat, Singjamei and Canchipur; for Imphal East at Checkon leading to Raja Dumbra Singh High School, Govindaji Temple, Hapta Kangjeibung, Minuthong Hatta to JNIMS and near JNIMS; while some have been set up at ISBT main gate, near North AOC traffic point, entrance to DM college, Nagamapal, near RIMS gate and at Ima Keithel Market no 3 .
If public response is positive then the number of cycles will be increased to around 200, he conveyed.
Informing that the application can be downloaded through the Google Playstore, the CEO said that the fee will be charged on hourly basis.
Additionally, the cycles are equipped with GPS and thus, their locations could be tracked instantaneously.
The cycles also have geo fencings, thereby setting a boundary for usage, he added.
Harikumar then said that the system has been launched with the aim of reducing pollution and same will be introduced in other places as well.
Apart from increasing the usage of bicycles, it will also play a key role in mitigating issues of commuting in Imphal City, he said.
MAHUD commissioner M Joy said that the system will not only help keep the body healthy, but also aid in pollution control and easing the stress on the existing transport system of the state.