The fate of Pune’s e-bike scheme is currently uncertain as it awaits approval from the state government. The scheme is designed to encourage the use of electric vehicles (e-bikes) and reduce air pollution in a city that boasts the highest number of two-wheelers in the country.
Last year the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Vikram Kumar approved the scheme for a one-year pilot project. The contract was awarded to VTRO Motors, tasked with establishing 2,000 charging points at 500 locations across the city and introducing 3,000 electric bikes in the initial phase. However, the company now requires permission from the state’s transport department to proceed with the scheme’s implementation.
According to the state regional transport department, e-vehicles with a speed of 25 km per hour do not require RTO registration. However, VTRO’s bikes exceed 25 km/h. The company approached the RTO for registration, but due to the absence of a state policy, it did not receive permission.
Meanwhile, VTRO is responsible for establishing charging stations, providing e-vehicles, developing user-friendly apps, supplying manpower and offering essential amenities to citizens. Beyond the environmental advantages of e-bikes, the scheme also benefits the city’s Metro system. This initiative not only promises to improve last-mile connectivity but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable transportation landscape in Pune.
