Mobike Rides Into It's First City in India, Pune

(Source: Mobike)

Mobike has announced the launch of its service in Pune, India. The launch was initiated through a close collaboration with Pune Municipal Corporation and other local administration agencies. Mobike has signed an agreement with the Pune Municipal Corporation, to operate in support of the municipality’s ambitious Pune Cycle Plan.

In a public gathering, media, the local community, Pune officials and local dignitaries joined Mobike on Thursday for a ceremonial signing of the first Mobike of India and ribbon cutting at an announcement event on Senapati Bapat Road which is located at the heart of the city. The location is centrally situated in and around Pune's educational hub and offers access to major transport networks, a bustling young crowd and Pune's commercial centers. The scenic location offers splendid views of Pune and highlights the mountains surrounding the city. The significance of the event marked how Mobike will benefit city residents and visitors alike, improving the vitality of the city through greater mobility and access throughout the city.

“We are thrilled to call Pune our first home in India,” said Mark Lin, Head of International Operations of Mobike. “Mobike is committed to developing a global bicycle share culture by collaborating closely with cities in India. Having lived in India for several years, I can fully appreciate the positive impact that a smart bicycle-share culture will bring to the residents here. Our rollout in Pune is just the start of this journey”.

Mobike’s bicycle-sharing service will launch in Kothrud in Pune. With an estimated population of 250,000, Kothrud is recognized as a cycling friendly suburb with dedicated cycling lanes, and a fitness-conscious populace residing in high-density residential societies.

“Smart bicycle sharing compared to other public transportation projects is affordable, people-friendly and easy to use. When utilized as a feeder system it can provide first and last mile connectivity to public transport systems such as BRTS & Metro.,” said Shri Kunal Kumar Jt. Secretary MoUD and former Municipal Commissioner of PMC. “We are delighted that Mobike is launching its operations in Pune. Mobike is an outstanding example of how Technology led solutions can solve challenges of urban mobility and reduce carbon emissions and it fits well into Pune’s overall developmental plan”.

Mobikers shall have the benefit of choosing from many digital payment methods, ranging from net banking, cards, wallets to India’s own UPI method of payment. Thus, Mobike will not only enable ease of payment for riders but will also promote the use of digital payments in general as it expands its operations across India.

“We are working with a number of cities across the country and are confident that the launch in Pune will be the first of many such partnerships with city administrations in India, allowing us to make cycling the most accessible, affordable, safe and convenient mode of urban transport in India. We see bicycle sharing being a big boost to strengthening our country’s public transport system and providing a SMART mobility option to commuters to cover short distances,” said Vibhor Jain, CEO of Mobike India.