Shillong, August 12: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday inaugurated the city’s first-ever Public Bicycle Sharing (PBS) system, aimed at promoting sustainable and non-motorised transport. The launch event, held in the presence of actor and fitness icon Milind Soman, marked a significant step under the Shillong Urban Mobility Policy 2024.
The policy envisions that at least 35% of the city’s transport will be through non-motorised means such as walking and cycling, reducing dependence on fossil fuel-driven vehicles. “This project is a step towards a greener and healthier Meghalaya. I encourage all our residents to take part in this initiative. Let’s make Shillong a walking and cycling city,” CM Sangma said after taking an inaugural electric bicycle ride to Khyndailad.
The PBS system has rolled out with over 20 electric bicycles stationed at key city points. Accessible via an app-based platform, the service is led by the state’s Urban Affairs Department in collaboration with GIZ India under the Sustainable Urban Mobility – Air Quality, Climate Action & Accessibility (SUM-ACA) project, supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
Milind Soman, who joined local cycling groups for a short ride, praised the city’s efforts towards healthier living and environmental responsibility.
