বাংলাApp-based bicycle-sharing platform JoBike is set to launch its service at three Dhaka Metro Rail Line-6 stations in the first phase. The initiative aims to reduce first-mile and last-mile transportation difficulties for metro passengers.
JoBike signed an agreement with Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) on August 6 following an open tender process. The service will initially operate as a six-month pilot project at Uttara North, Uttara Center and Uttara South metro stations.
Between 150 and 300 pedal bicycles will be placed at the selected stations. Depending on passenger demand, more parking hubs may be added later. If the pilot project proves successful, the service is expected to expand to other stations along Metro Rail Line-6.
Which stations will get JoBike first?
The first phase of the JoBike service will cover Uttara North, Uttara Center and Uttara South metro stations. The bicycles are intended to make short-distance trips from metro stations to homes, educational institutions and workplaces easier.
How to use JoBike
Passengers will need to go to a designated parking area or a nearby JoBike hub. They can then use the JoBike app to scan the QR code attached to a bicycle and unlock it.
After reaching their destination, riders can park the bicycle at any designated JoBike parking location and end the ride. This could provide metro passengers with an alternative to rickshaws for short-distance travel.
How much does JoBike cost?
The JoBike service will charge a 2-taka unlocking fee at the beginning of each ride. In addition, the fare is set at 1 taka per minute. A 10-minute ride will therefore cost 12 taka, including the unlocking fee, while a 20-minute ride will cost 22 taka.
JoBike founder and CEO Mehedi Reza said millions of people use the metro system, but passengers often have limited options for reaching their final destinations after leaving a station. He believes the JoBike service can provide a healthy, convenient and affordable transportation option.
Residents of Uttara RAJUK Apartment Project and Uttara Rupayan City, employees of the metro depot and students from nearby universities are expected to benefit from the initiative. These institutions include Shanto-Mariam University of Creative Technology, World University of Bangladesh and BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology.
JoBike says bicycle use can also help reduce carbon emissions. The company has called for government support in developing dedicated bicycle lanes to create a more bike-friendly environment in Dhaka.
JoBike began its journey in 2018 as an environmentally friendly smart ride-sharing platform in Cox’s Bazar. After temporarily suspending operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company resumed activities with an e-bike service at Chittagong University in June this year. Now, the JoBike service is returning to the capital on a larger scale through its integration with the metro rail system.
Read more: Bangladesh News
বাংলা
