Cycles a hit at Metro stations,stands now open at three more

“We had received several enquires and requests to extend the scheme at these stations,especially at Pragati Maidan and Indraprastha,which have a number of government offices close by. This service is sure to help many office-goers,” said Anuj Dayal,DMRC spokesperson. “Patel Chowk,on the other hand,has several tourist locations like Jantar Mantar and India Gate in close proximity and the target customers here would be tourists.”

A concept quite popular in foreign countries,the scheme is being tried for the first time in the Capital. “Though there is no profit motive,such services might motivate commuters to take to eco-friendly travel options,” said Sudhir Haryal,managing director of Planet,the agency that has taken up the contract for these stands.

Each of the Metro stations will have ten bicycles available on rent,six for men and four for women. A nominal Rs 10 will be charged for using the cycles for a minimum of four hours. Commuters will have to provide a photo-identity proof for availing the facility.

DMRC had started the initiative with seven bicycles at the Vishwavidyalaya Metro station in October 2007,which has now increased to 25. On an average,50 to 60 people avail this facility everyday at the station.

The facility might be extended further to other Metro stations depending upon the potential for success of such a scheme.