Srinagar, Jan 02: Despite its potential to revolutionize local transportation and reduce carbon emissions, Srinagar’s e-bicycle service is plagued by maintenance issues and vandalism.
Launched as part of the Smart City initiative, the service aimed to offer an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transport. However, frequent breakdowns and an increasing number of damaged bicycles have rendered many of the e-bikes unusable, leaving users frustrated.
Out of the 1,000 bicycles initially planned for the project, only 700 are in operation, with approximately 70 undergoing repairs. The service, which is run in collaboration with Ahmedabad-based company ‘Chartered Bike’, includes both electric and pedalled bicycles available at designated docking stations. Although the initiative has the potential to ease congestion and promote sustainable transport, users are increasingly frustrated with the service’s unreliability.
“I relied on the e-bikes for my daily commute to coaching classes, but now I can’t see to find a working bike,” said Fahad, a student. Tariq, another commuter, echoed similar concerns, stating, “Some days, I have to walk because none of the bikes are working. If the bikes aren’t fixed soon, people will stop using them.”
Users have reported frequent issues such as stuck pedals, broken chains, and malfunctioning QR codes, which disrupt their rides. “The pedals and chains often get stuck, making it hard to ride. It’s really disappointing,” said Yasir, a regular user. Sidiq, another frequent rider, noted problems with the QR codes, which further undermine the service’s reliability.
Despite these setbacks, the e-bicycle service remains an appealing, environmentally friendly transportation option. With 74 docking stations already operational, the project aims to expand to 100 stations across Srinagar, offering 1,000 bicycles for rent. Authorities have assured users that maintenance teams are actively working to repair the damaged bicycles, with the goal of restoring the full fleet in the coming months.
Mehran Khan, Division Head for Chartered Bikes, explained, “While full maintenance, including cleaning, is carried out in the summer, the snow in winter makes it more difficult to conduct complete maintenance. Our team performs maintenance at least once a day, and five times a week during the winter months. We are managing the disruptions caused by snow and are continuing our efforts.”
Khan also mentioned that the maintenance team carries spare parts to address any damage or issues. In cases of vandalism, they replace parts and restore the bicycles as needed. The company is also conducting awareness campaigns to discourage vandalism and ensure the service remains available to everyone.
Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) official said, “We are committed to improving the e-bicycle service by addressing maintenance challenges and encouraging public responsibility. This initiative is vital for reducing traffic congestion and promoting green transportation, and we are working closely with Chartered Bikes to resolve the issues and ensure a smooth experience for users.”
Despite ongoing challenges, the e-bicycle service remains a promising and sustainable transportation option that could help alleviate traffic congestion and reduce the city’s carbon footprint. With continued efforts to repair and maintain the bicycles and increased community engagement to prevent vandalism, there is hope the service will become more reliable and accessible.
