Scan-and-ride in city: Urban mobility takes public e-bicycle sharing route

SHILLONG, Aug 12: The Meghalaya government on Tuesday launched Shillong’s first-ever public bicycle sharing (PBS) system, marking a major milestone towards sustainable urban mobility in the hill city.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with fitness icon Milind Soman, unveiled the initiative at a special programme.
The PBS project, part of the Shillong Urban Mobility Policy 2024, aims to promote non-motorised transport and healthier lifestyles.
The policy aims to transform Shillong into a “walking and cycling city” with the initial target of 35% of city travel on foot or by cycle.
In its first phase, more than 20 electric bicycles have been rolled out. Residents can rent these publicly-owned e-bikes for short commutes, offering a cleaner and more efficient travel option.
Led by the Urban Affairs Department in collaboration with GIZ India under the Sustainable Urban Mobility – Air Quality, Climate Action & Accessibility (SUM-ACA) project, the launch also has the backing of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Speaking to reporters after the official launch, Sangma said, “This concept of Ride Shillong will provide electric bicycles for public use. Being electric, they’re perfect for hilly terrains—anyone, regardless of age, can use them with ease.”
He expressed pride in launching a project that combines environmental sustainability and modern convenience. “Today is more than just the launch of a new transport system; it’s the beginning of a shift in how we think about mobility in our city,” he said.
“Shillong’s terrain has always posed a challenge to traditional cycling, but with electric bicycles, we are removing that barrier. This will not only encourage more people to adopt cycling but also reduce our carbon footprint and ease our city’s traffic.”
Sharing his experience, Sangma noted that with electric assistance and gear controls, cycling required minimal effort, even uphill.
He emphasised that the initiative is part of a broader vision to make Shillong more walkable, cyclable, and less dependent on motor vehicles, both to ease traffic congestion and to promote a greener future.
Soman, expressing his enthusiasm for the project, said, “I’ve been coming to Shillong for nearly 30 years and have seen it change into a busier city.”
He said that Shillong’s charm lies in its natural beauty and compact size.
According to him, Shillong can become a walkable city again, and initiatives like e-cycles, along with infrastructure changes and public participation, can help restore that charm.
Urging citizens to prioritise health and fitness, Soman said that it is about making a choice and deciding to be healthier and fitter every day.
“Whether it’s rest, food, or physical activity, it’s the little choices that make a big difference,” he said.
How Ride Shillong Works
Download the Ride Shillong app, scan the QR code on any available bike to unlock it.
Ride anywhere and park only at official stations.
Charges: Rs 50 deposit, plus Rs 10 for every additional hour.
Safety reminders include wearing a helmet, following traffic rules, and using designated parking zones only.